African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticized the proposed N712 billion renovation of Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport, urging a focus on maintenance, efficiency, and regional airport expansion instead.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi labeled the plan as a “misplaced priority” given Nigeria’s economic challenges, reports National Accord.
Abdullahi questioned the need for such a massive expenditure, equivalent to approximately $500 million, on an airport that remains fully operational after recent upgrades.
“In 2014, this same amount was used to build four new airports in Abuja, Lagos, Kano, and Port Harcourt, funded by a Chinese loan that Nigeria is still repaying,” he stated.
He highlighted that a new terminal at the Lagos airport, commissioned by former President Muhammadu Buhari in March 2022, spans 56,000 square meters and includes 66 check-in counters, jet bridges, cooling systems, and a 22-room hotel.
“This terminal can handle 14 million passengers annually but only served 6.5 million in 2024. Is this the same airport now slated for renovation?” Abdullahi asked.
The ADC demanded clarity on whether the ₦712 billion project was approved by the National Assembly or included in the current budget, stating, “We demand to know under what constitutional provision this money is being spent.”
The party called for an immediate halt to the project and an independent audit of the proposed budget.
Abdullahi urged redirecting the funds to critical areas like building seven teaching hospitals, funding free education in three zones, or supporting rural electrification and road rehabilitation, which would directly benefit ordinary Nigerians.
•Photo Caption: Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos
