The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has officially inaugurated a 3.1-kilometer runway at the Wilberforce Chuba Okadigbo International Airport in Onueke, Ebonyi State.
The ceremony, held during her visit to the state for the 2024 Ebonyi Women’s Day celebration, marks a key milestone in the development of the airport.
The inauguration was attended by notable figures including the Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, and former Senate President Senator Anyim Pius Anyim.
Senator Tinubu praised Governor Nwifuru for his efforts in seeing the project through, emphasizing that the new runway will stimulate socio-economic growth in the region, particularly with the impending commencement of commercial flight operations on December 12, 2024.
In her remarks, the First Lady highlighted the strategic importance of the airport in fostering economic activities, which she believes will have a far-reaching impact on the state’s development.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu also met with traditional rulers in Ebonyi at the Presidential Lodge in Abakaliki, where she commended the peaceful nature of the state, describing it as a “beacon of hope” for the nation.
She urged the traditional leaders to continue their role in fostering national unity and progress.
At the Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium in Abakaliki, where the 2024 Women’s Day Celebration took place, Senator Tinubu celebrated the achievements of women in the state, acknowledging the theme “Uplifting Women for Sustainable Development.”
She lauded the state government’s commitment to gender equality, noting that Governor Nwifuru had surpassed the 35% target for female appointments.
She also announced a major empowerment initiative: the governor has approved the disbursement of one million Naira each to 130 individuals as part of a business recapitalization program.
As part of the RHI (Renewed Hope Initiative), Senator Tinubu also presented a donation of 50 million Naira, along with 20,000 wrappers, shoes, and bags, to support the businesses of women in the state.
Addressing market women, the First Lady appealed for fair pricing during the upcoming festive season, urging them not to take advantage of the holiday rush by inflating food prices.
Governor Nwifuru, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the First Lady’s visit and acknowledged the positive impact of the RHI programs in the state.
He also thanked Ebonyi women for their invaluable contributions to the state’s development, stating that he remains deeply indebted to them for their ongoing support and efforts
