By Muhammad Mamman
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has fired back at critics of the Federal Government’s ₦712 billion (approx. $400 million) plan to upgrade the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, insisting the project is a bargain by global standards.
In an interview with ARISE TV on Monday, Keyamo slammed what he described as “uninformed outrage” over the cost, noting that several other countries have spent significantly more on similar airport upgrades.
“Airports worldwide are undergoing major refurbishments. Ethiopia spent $7.8 billion, Angola $3.5 billion, Cambodia $1.5 billion — even South Africa’s was around $1.2 billion,” Keyamo said. “Guess what? Ours is just $400 million — less than half a billion dollars.”
More Than Just Bricks and Mortar
The minister clarified that the project goes far beyond aesthetics or simple construction work.
“It’s not just a building,” he explained. “We’re talking about a complex network of new ring roads, bridges, and high-tech infrastructure. Modern airports involve advanced navigation and communication systems, not just block and cement.”
Keyamo stressed that critics underestimate the scope and sophistication involved in modern airport facilities.
Opposition Pushback
His remarks come amid mounting criticism from opposition parties — notably the African Democratic Congress (ADC) — which labelled the ₦712 billion upgrade as a misplaced priority given Nigeria’s current economic struggles.
However, Keyamo insists the investment is strategic, necessary, and modest, especially when benchmarked against international airport developments.
“This isn’t extravagance — it’s prudence. It’s time we stopped thinking small,” he said.
