Southwest governors, both past and present, have spent over N266 billion on new airport construction projects, despite existing airports in the region being economically unviable. Experts argue that these projects are unlikely to be profitable and may become burdens on future administrations. Governors often prioritize political gains over practical, expert advice when pursuing these developments.…..For More READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE ▶▶
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!All six states in the southwest—Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti—have either completed or are working on airport projects. Of the eight airport sites, some are overseen by the Federal Government while others are state initiatives. Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos remains the most viable airport in the region. However, studies show that only a few airports in Nigeria contribute meaningfully to the aviation sector, with the majority being economically non-viable.
Ogun State has faced challenges with two non-operational airports. The Gateway Agro Cargo Airport project was started under ex-Governor Gbenga Daniel, while his successor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, shifted focus to a passenger airport in Wasimi. The current governor, Dapo Abiodun, has reverted to the original cargo airport plan, although over N97.2 billion has been allocated to this still-uncompleted project.
In Osun, an airport initiated under Governor Rauf Aregbesola was abandoned despite significant investments. Attempts to revive the project faced financial constraints, and by the time Aregbesola left office, the cost had risen to N69 billion. Similarly, in Ekiti State, over N16.6 billion was spent on an airport project that has failed to become operational.
Lagos State’s planned second airport in the Lekki area aims to complement Murtala Muhammed Airport, but its viability remains debated. Industry experts are concerned about the practicality and potential for the project to drain resources. Both Ondo and Oyo state airports, built by the Federal Government, continue to operate but are not economically sustainable.
Experts have questioned the rationale for these airport projects, highlighting the lack of business plans and proper research into passenger and cargo traffic. They argue that many of these airports are politically motivated and unlikely to serve the long-term needs of the states. Despite these concerns, state governments, like Lagos, continue to push forward with ambitious airport projects, though their viability remains uncertain.…..For More READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE ▶▶
