Keyamo Explains Why Airport Concession Process Was Halted, Promises Transparency in New Bid

Samuel Mobolaji

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN), has clarified the reasons behind the suspension of the planned concession of major airports across Nigeria, which began before his tenure.

During a tour of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Keyamo disclosed that the previous concession process was halted due to transparency concerns and ongoing litigation.

Keyamo reassured Nigerians that the current administration is committed to ensuring that the concession process is transparent and beneficial to the country.

“The big plan for the airports, especially the five international airports, is still to concession them to the best in the world. We are looking for the best partners to come and collaborate with us in turning the airports around and running them professionally, all for the benefit of Nigerians,” he said.

He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had given clear instructions to ensure the process is fully transparent and open to reputable bidders.

“We halted the previous process because there were complaints, and people went to court over its lack of transparency. But under this administration, it will be handled as transparently as possible,” Keyamo emphasized.

The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to finding the best international partners to transform and professionally manage Nigeria’s airports, a move aimed at improving services and infrastructure for the ultimate benefit of the country.