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EKITI CARGO AIRPORT SHALL NOT BE WASTED

 


Six state governments in Nigeria have spent approximately N160 billion on airport projects deemed unviable by opposition politicians and aviation professionals. 

The projects, which have not attracted significant air traffic, are considered a waste of public funds. 

Stakeholders have condemned the state governors for their decisions and called for accountability.

Some of the airports in question include:

- Ekiti Cargo Airport (N16 billion)

- Ebonyi Airport (N36 billion)

- Bayelsa Airport (N70 billion)

- Jigawa Airport (N4 billion)

- Nasarawa Cargo Airport (N10 billion)

- Yobe Airport (N18 billion)


Former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi spent N16 billion on the Ekiti cargo airport, which has failed to attract aircraft due to its non-viability. 

Despite initial criticisms from stakeholders, Fayemi pushed forward with the project, which remains unused. 

As of January 2023, an additional N600 million had been spent, bringing the total to N16.6 billion. The funds were allocated for:

- Perimeter fencing

- Completion of the runway and taxiway

- Terminal building construction

- Compensation for farmers whose land was acquired for the project

The project remains unfinished, sparking further concerns about its viability and the wise use of public funds.


Aviation professionals have criticized the scale and funding of these projects, arguing that they are disproportionate to the immediate needs of the states. 

They also point out that the airports lack sufficient flight operations to justify the investment.

Opposition politicians have mocked the governors for their decisions, describing the projects as "white elephant" initiatives that have not added economic value to the states.

Some experts have suggested converting the airports into skill acquisition centers or other public facilities that can benefit the people.

The matter has raised questions about the approval process and business plans behind these airport projects, with calls for probes into the spending.

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