Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has disputed the claim made by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that the Federal Government provided N50bn to upgrade the Ibadan International Airport. Makinde stated that the Oyo State Government fully funded the expansion of the Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Ibadan, without any support from the Federal Government. This denial was made during the Makinde/Daura 2027 Presidential Town Hall meeting in Katsina.
According to Makinde, Wike's claim is false and that the President Bola Tinubu-led administration did not provide any funding for the airport project. The governor emphasized that the state government undertook the project without any alleged Federal Government funding. Makinde's statement was made in response to Wike's interview on TVC's Journalists' Hangout programme, where he claimed that the Federal Government supported the Oyo State Government with N50bn for the airport project.
The Ibadan Airport upgrade project, according to Makinde, was undertaken 100 per cent with the funds of Oyo State. The governor made this clarification during the Northwest Consultative Meeting, where he addressed supporters and stakeholders. Makinde also mentioned that his attention was drawn to Wike's interview, prompting him to set the record straight.
Wike's claim had suggested that the President gave N50 billion to Oyo State to upgrade the Ibadan Airport to international standards. However, Makinde's denial indicates that the state government relied solely on its own funds to complete the project. The governor's statement has clarified the source of funding for the airport upgrade.
The dispute between Makinde and Wike highlights the need for accurate information on government projects and funding. The incident also underscores the importance of verifying claims made by public officials. Makinde's denial has provided clarity on the funding of the Ibadan Airport upgrade project.
The Makinde/Daura 2027 Presidential Town Hall meeting in Katsina was attended by stakeholders and supporters, who were addressed by the governor. The meeting provided a platform for Makinde to clarify issues related to his administration, including the funding of the Ibadan Airport project. The governor's statement on the airport funding has been made public.
The clarification on the Ibadan Airport funding comes at a time when the project is nearing completion. The Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Ibadan, has undergone significant upgrades, enhancing its capacity to handle more flights and passengers. The Oyo State Government's investment in the airport is expected to boost economic activities in the region.
Key points
- Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, denies receiving N50bn from FG for Ibadan airport upgrade.
- Makinde says state government fully funded the project without Federal Government support.
- The dispute highlights the need for accurate information on government projects and funding.
