Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has denied claims by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that the Federal Government provided N50bn for the upgrade of the Ibadan International Airport. Makinde stated that the project is being fully funded by the Oyo State Government, contradicting Wike's assertion on a TVC programme. The disagreement highlights a strained relationship between Makinde and the Tinubu administration.
According to Makinde, the Ibadan Airport upgrade project is being undertaken 100% with Oyo State funds. He made this statement at a presidential town hall meeting in Katsina, organised by the Allied People's Movement. Makinde's media aide, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, reiterated the governor's position, describing Wike's claim as false, reckless, and misleading. Olanrewaju stated that there was no N50bn approval from the Federal Government for the project.
Olanrewaju further clarified that President Bola Tinubu's approval for the project was "at no cost to the Federal Government." He maintained that the Oyo State Government has fully financed the upgrade, including expansion of the runway, upgrade of airfield lighting, and construction of supporting infrastructure. The state government has executed and funded every component of the upgrade so far.
The Oyo State Government has transformed the facility, including apron improvements, enhanced aviation safety installations, and work on a modern international terminal. Olanrewaju criticised Wike for not seeking factual information before making public statements. He emphasised that aviation infrastructure funding follows strict due-process channels involving the Federal Ministry of Aviation and other regulatory bodies.
Makinde also commented on other issues, including the devolution of mining responsibilities to state governments. He proposed that states be given greater control over the sector, with the Federal Government retaining oversight. Makinde argued that states would perform better with more control over mining.
The governor's comments come amid an increasingly strained political relationship between Makinde and the Tinubu administration. Makinde's 2027 presidential campaign would focus on resetting Nigeria's socio-political system, including the economy, education, and security. He expressed concern over President Tinubu's decision to proceed on working leave without transmitting power.
Makinde stated that his administration seeks to reset the economy, education, and security architecture in Nigeria. He emphasised the need for a 24/7 economy and improvement in education and security. The governor's campaign would be issue-based, focusing on critical challenges facing the country.
Key points
- Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde denies receiving N50bn from FG for Ibadan airport upgrade.
- Makinde says Ibadan airport upgrade project fully funded by Oyo State Government.
- Governor proposes devolution of mining responsibilities to state governments.
