From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja.
The Kogi state government has started process for funding of N50 billion Lokoja International Airport as construction work on the project is expected to commence soon
The project which is located at the outskirt of Lokoja in Zariagi community, will be executed in collaboration with Sukuk financial institution for the funding
Officials of Sukuk on Tuesday, inspected the proposed project site for the construction of the Airport covering 4,000 hectares of land as part of the creteria required to access funds for execution of the work.
Amin Mohammed, the lead Sukuk financial experts and Head, Public Sector, AVIA Capital of the organization, during the inspection of the project site, told journalists that the N50 billion grant will be interest free.
“Sukuk as financier of the project will be part owner as the whole idea is aimed at facilitating investments for the state’s accelerated development”
Engineer Achem Enemaku, a Director from the Kogi State Ministry of Transportation who conducted the officials of Sukuk financial institution round the proposed International Airport project site, informed newsmen that the visit is part of preparations geared towards the commencement of work soon.
“Already, the project has an approved budget sum of N50 billion while feasibility study and design of the project had been carried out
“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has also approved bidding for the project and work is about to start after necessary due process”
Financial experts of Sukuk also inspected the on-going construction of Lokoja International Market along the Kogi State House of Assembly road where the lead experts, Amin Mohammed expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and quality of execution.
“The on-going construction of Lokoja International Market under our funding will gulp the sum of N31 billion of which N7 billion has been paid as mobilization. The project is to be completed in 36 months” Mohammed disclosed.
Recall that the Kogi State Government decided to relocate the International Market from its present place as a result of vehicular congestion being experienced at the moment.
