By Terfa Kwaghvihi 

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the construction of a new airstrip in Gboko, Benue State, in a move aimed at improving security operations and emergency response in the state and the wider Middle Belt. The project, valued at ₦34.39 billion, was approved during Tuesday's FEC meeting chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the construction and development of an airstrip in Gboko, Benue State, as part of the Federal Government's strategy to improve security operations, emergency response and humanitarian access in the region.

The approval was granted during Tuesday's meeting of the council chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Briefing State House correspondents after the meeting, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), disclosed that the contract was awarded to CCECC Nigeria Limited at a cost of ₦34.39 billion.

According to the minister, the proposed airstrip will serve as an operational base for security agencies involved in combating banditry, terrorism and other security threats affecting Benue State and neighbouring parts of the Middle Belt.

Keyamo explained that Gboko was selected because of its strategic location, its importance as one of Nigeria's agricultural centres and its proximity to communities experiencing persistent security challenges.

He added that the facility would also support humanitarian operations and emergency medical services, enabling faster deployment of personnel, relief materials and emergency assistance during crises.

The approval comes as Benue State continues to face recurring attacks by armed groups, leading to loss of lives, displacement of communities and destruction of homes and livelihoods. Government officials say the new infrastructure is expected to improve rapid response capabilities and strengthen coordination among security agencies operating in the region.

Construction timelines, implementation schedules and projected completion dates were not announced during the briefing.