The Federal Government has commenced the reconstruction of the Wachakal airstrip in Karasuwa Local Government area of Yobe state at the cost of over six billion naira to ease the fight against insurgents in the North East.
Available records show that the Wachakal airstrip knows as Nguru airport was established by the colonial administration in 1935 for economic and security purposes but abandoned due to its bad shape in subsequent years.
In his address at the groundbreaking ceremony at the project site, the Senate President Ahmed Lawan representing Yobe North and in whose constituency the project is situated said, the reconstruction of the airstrip would aid movement and troops and equipment in the fight against insurgency in addition to other social engagements.
Senator Ahmed who commended President Muhammdu Buhari for graciously approving the project urged the contractor to ensure quality work as the community would monitor every step from beginning to the end of the project to ensure quality service delivery.
He also stressed the need for engaging the community members and local contractors to provide services where they can to give them a sense of belonging.
Similarly, Governor Mai Mala Buni while acknowledging the numerous ongoing federal government projects across Yobe state said, efficient and effective means of transportation would no doubt accelerate the growth and development of any society.
In his address, the minister of Aviation Hadi Sirika pointed out that the reconstruction work at the Wachakal airstrip would include the expansion of the runway to 2100 meters and 30 meters plus shoulders wide for easy use by small and medium aircraft.
Hadi Siriki said the aviation sector has become the fastest-growing sector under the Buhari administration’s transformation agenda especially in addressing the infrastructure deficits.
The minister of aviation Hasi Siki however explained that when completed the Wachakal airstrip would change the dynamics in terms of addressing insecurity and boosting economic activities in Yobe state and beyond.
The reconstruction of the Wachakal airstrip has twelve months completion period. It would be recalled that the Federal Executive Council approved the project in August this year.
Reporting by Alkasim Bala, Editing By Tola Oguneye