Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has taken a firm stance against the proposed cost variation for the construction of a second runway at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The contract cost, which skyrocketed from ₦90 billion to ₦532 billion in just two years, was labelled as “unjustifiable” by the minister.
Speaking before the National Assembly Joint Committee on Aviation, Keyamo underscored the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline and accountability, describing the proposed variation as a betrayal of financial prudence.
“This kind of cost escalation is completely unacceptable. We are here to serve the people, and we cannot justify such an astronomical increase,” he declared.
To address the impasse, Keyamo revealed that two alternative proposals from Chinese firms are under review and will soon be presented to President Bola Tinubu for consideration.
“We are exploring other options that are cost-effective without compromising quality,” he said, hinting at a shift towards more competitive project management practices.
During the meeting, the committee also reviewed 124 ongoing aviation projects inherited by the ministry. Keyamo reassured lawmakers of a new project monitoring team aimed at enhancing transparency and ensuring timely delivery.
He also highlighted successful public-private partnerships (PPP) in Enugu and Oyo states, which have taken over specific airport operations.
“This isn’t about being overwhelmed but about leveraging partnerships for better results, as directed by the President,” he explained.
Keyamo defended the decentralization of the Zaria Aviation College, which faced criticism over its overcrowded hostels.
By expanding access to other parts of the country, the ministry aims to make aviation training more inclusive.
“It’s about expanding opportunities for students nationwide while ensuring quality training remains intact,” he stated.
Responding to Senator Ireti Kingibe’s critique of the Aerospace University, Keyamo clarified that the initiative was designed to cater to the specialized needs of the aviation sector.
“The Aerospace University is not a duplication of effort. It’s about creating a dedicated hub for knowledge and innovation in the aviation industry,” he explained.
Keyamo’s rejection of the controversial variation and his strategic pivot toward cost-effective alternatives highlight the government’s focus on smarter spending and long-term growth.
As Nigeria evaluates new proposals for the Abuja runway project, Keyamo’s leadership sends a clear message: reckless spending has no runway in this administration.
