Contract for the construction of Bauchi International Airport has been awarded to Messrs Triacta Nigeria Limited at a cost of N7, 998, 595, 433:13K with a completion period of 18 months.
Bauchi state governor, Mallam Isa Yuguda while laying the foundation of the airport acknowledged the importance of air transportation as not only safer but also faster and more comfortable.
According to the governor, the airport when concluded will attract and enhance movement of people and goods, which will thereby boost the economy of the state.
Dignitaries including politicians, traditional rulers, military officers as well as community leaders gathered at Durum village about 15 kilometres to the state capital for the foundation laying ceremony.
Among the dignitaries that grace the occasion is former Minister of Communications, Prof Dora Akunyili.
She expressed her satisfaction on the project claiming that the airport will open up the state to investors as well as tourists.
The project manager of the construction company expressed optimism that the project will be completed as scheduled and measure up to the required standard.
The concept of the Bauchi International Airport dates back to the early 1980’s but could not be constructed due to lack of political will on the part of the leaders until now that the foundation laying ceremony is performed.
The presence of an international airport in the impoverished state is expected to open up the state with its strategic location as a gateway to the north east sub-region.
It is also expected to have direct bearing on the overall socio-economic development of the state and the region.