The Benue State Government has announced plans to construct a new civil airport and establish an export-import processing zone along the Makurdi–Gboko Road, in a major move aimed at boosting trade, agriculture, and connectivity within the state and beyond.
The airport will include international, domestic, and cargo terminals, while the processing zone will focus on enhancing export activities, especially agricultural produce for which Benue is well known.
Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Rev. Dr Frederick Ikyaan, disclosed the development on Friday during a meeting with traditional rulers from Guma, Gboko, Gwer, and Tarka local government areas — the communities directly affected by the project.
Ikyaan revealed that the airport will be located just after Agasha junction, while the processing zone will cover about 100 hectares on the opposite side of the road. He further stated that land surveys for both facilities have already been completed and that Governor Hyacinth Alia has given a directive for immediate commencement of the project.
“The construction of the civil airport and the export-import processing zone is a key part of Governor Alia’s vision to transform Benue into an investment-friendly and commercially vibrant state,” the commissioner said.
He stressed the importance of engaging with traditional rulers and local communities to ensure smooth implementation of the project, noting that cooperation from the grassroots would be vital to its success.
In response, some of the traditional rulers welcomed the initiative but called for proper compensation and resettlement plans for residents whose lands may be affected.
Ter Gwer, Chief Dominic Akpe, and Ter Gboko, Chief Gabriel Shosom, described the airport and processing zone as a “landmark development” and praised the state government for the initiative. However, they also urged the government to ensure that no community is unfairly treated in the process.
“We are happy with the plan, but compensation must be handled fairly. Our people must be carried along,” Chief Shosom said.
The meeting was also attended by senior government officials, including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Lands, Matthias Antor, and the Director-General of the Benue Geographic Information System (BenGIS), Prof. Daniel Amine.
According to the state government, the new airport will help improve air connectivity for residents and businesses, while the export processing zone will support agro-processing, storage, and logistics for farm produce. These projects are expected to create jobs, attract investors, and enhance the value of Benue’s agricultural output.
Benue, often referred to as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” produces large quantities of yam, rice, soybeans, oranges, and other crops, much of which is currently sold with minimal processing. The export zone is seen as a way to add value, boost exports, and increase revenue for both farmers and the state.
