The Federal Government has withdrawn its participation in the foundation-laying ceremony for the proposed Osun State International Airport in Ede, Osun State. This decision comes after the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, requested a postponement of the ceremony until disputes surrounding the project are resolved.
The state governor, Ademola Adeleke, had planned the event for December 13. However, the ministry’s request to delay the event was made in a letter dated December 6, signed by the permanent secretary, Emmanuel Merinole.
The planned relocation of the airport from Ido-Osun to Ede, Adeleke’s hometown, has sparked controversy and tension. A state government committee reported that the original site in Ido-Osun did not meet basic aviation requirements, prompting the move.
The ministry’s letter emphasized the need for efficient use of public funds, stating that the Federal Government is mandated to ensure judicious use of funds to curtail wastage of resources. The letter also pointed out that the airstrip is a federal project included in the ministry’s 2024 budget, and the state’s plan to expand it to an international airport must align with federal objectives.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to take over the completion of the MKO Abiola Airport in Ido-Osun, Osun State. The lawmakers also asked the Federal Ministry of Aviation and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority to liaise with the Osun State Government to explore the possibility of a partnership on the project.
