Ado-Iliyasu Demands Transparency Over ₦712.26bn Lagos Airport Modernisation Project
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senate, Dr. Ibrahim Ado Iliyasu, has called for greater transparency and accountability in the Federal Government's comprehensive modernisation of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, backed by an approved investment of ₦712.26 billion, equivalent to approximately $447 million–$500 million.
Dr. Iliyasu made the call while appearing on a national press programme, where he discussed the airport project alongside the state of the Nigerian economy, governance and the need for prudent management of public resources.
The major aviation project, championed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, is aimed at comprehensively modernising the Lagos international airport as part of the Federal Government's broader efforts to upgrade critical aviation infrastructure.
However, Dr. Iliyasu said the scale of the investment makes transparency and public accountability particularly important, especially at a time when many Nigerians are facing significant economic challenges.
He questioned the timing, cost, scope and procurement arrangements surrounding the project, insisting that Nigerians deserve clear information on how the funds will be utilised and the benefits the investment is expected to deliver.
"Why now? Why $500 million? Nigerians deserve a detailed explanation on how this money will be spent, the contractors involved, and the direct benefits to the travelling public," he said.
The FCT Senate candidate urged the National Assembly, Bureau of Public Procurement and other relevant oversight institutions to properly scrutinise the project and ensure that due process, transparency and value for money are maintained throughout its implementation.
According to him, the Federal Government's development agenda should be reflected in prudent management of public funds and infrastructure projects that deliver measurable benefits to citizens.
Dr. Iliyasu also questioned the repeated rehabilitation and upgrading of major Nigerian airports, arguing that government should explore more sustainable approaches to airport development and management.
He suggested that properly structured concessions and private-sector participation could complement government efforts, particularly given the capital-intensive nature of modern airport infrastructure.
The World-Class Chartered Arbitrator and President of the North Central People Development Initiative (NCPDI) further expressed concern over the wider economic situation in the country, citing poverty, unemployment, insecurity and the continued migration of young Nigerians in search of better opportunities.
He argued that economic hardship and lack of opportunities can fuel desperation and contribute to wider social challenges, urging government to intensify efforts towards job creation, economic empowerment and improved living conditions.
Dr. Iliyasu maintained that major public projects should not only be announced but must be implemented transparently and evaluated based on their impact on citizens.
He said Nigerians have a legitimate interest in understanding how large public investments are financed, procured and executed, stressing that accountability should remain a central principle of governance regardless of political affiliation.
Reaffirming his political agenda ahead of the 2027 FCT Senate election, Dr. Iliyasu said his vision is centred on people-first leadership, affordable healthcare, youth and women empowerment, rural infrastructure, justice, equity and inclusive representation across the six Area Councils of the Federal Capital Territory.
He maintained that effective leadership requires transparency, accountability and a commitment to ensuring that public resources are deployed for the benefit of the people.
