The Ebonyi State Government has vehemently denied claims that the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport in Onueke has been converted into a worship centre, insisting the facility remains fully operational for commercial flight services.
Mrs. Ngozi Obichukwu, the state Commissioner for Aviation and Transport Technology, dismissed the allegations on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, stating that the reports circulating on social media were entirely false and misleading. Her remarks aimed to quash rumours suggesting the airport was being used for a seven-day prayer and fasting programme.
“It has never been a worship centre, and we don’t intend to use it as a worship centre,” Mrs. Obichukwu asserted, directly refuting the speculative claims. She emphasised that the airport is dedicated to its primary purpose of facilitating air travel and economic activities for the state.
The commissioner clarified that the airport is currently serving commercial airlines, specifically mentioning that Air Peace and United Nigeria airlines continue to operate regular flights from the facility. This underscores the state government’s commitment to the airport’s commercial viability and its role in connecting Ebonyi to other parts of Nigeria.
Rumours of the airport’s conversion gained traction on various social media platforms, alleging that the modern aviation facility had been repurposed for religious activities. Such claims often generate public discourse in Nigeria, given the importance of public infrastructure for economic development and the diverse religious landscape of the country.
The Chuba Okadigbo International Airport was officially commissioned in April 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, under the administration of then-Governor David Umahi. It represents a significant infrastructure investment for Ebonyi State, aimed at boosting trade, tourism, and connectivity within the South-east region and beyond. Maintaining its integrity as a functional airport is crucial for the state’s economic aspirations.
Mrs. Obichukwu advised the public to disregard the misleading information, urging citizens to rely on official channels for verified updates regarding the airport’s operations. The state government remains focused on optimising the airport’s potential to drive economic growth and provide essential travel services to its people.
The denial serves to reassure stakeholders, including airlines, passengers, and potential investors, that the airport is functioning as intended and is not subject to any change in its operational mandate. The government is expected to continue promoting the airport’s commercial services and ensuring its sustained functionality.
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