Makinde Slams Wike's Claims of N50bn Airport Funding

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has categorically refuted claims made by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, regarding the funding of the Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan. During a recent Town Hall meeting in Katsina, Makinde stated that the airport upgrade is entirely financed by Oyo State, contrary to Wike's assertion that the Federal Government provided N50 billion for the project.

Makinde's remarks came in response to Wike's comments made on TVC's Journalists’ Hangout, where he claimed that the Tinubu administration had allocated substantial funds for the airport's enhancement. 

“I want to say that claim is false,” Makinde asserted. “The President did not give me or Oyo State N50 billion to upgrade the Ibadan Airport. The Ibadan Airport upgrade project is being undertaken 100 percent with the funds of Oyo State.”

The governor emphasized the importance of setting the record straight before addressing other pressing issues at the Northwest consultative meeting, where he engaged with stakeholders and the presidential candidate.

“I was drawn to Wike’s interview, and I felt it necessary to clarify the funding situation,” he stated. “We are here at the Northwest Consultative Meeting. We met with our candidate, stakeholders, and listened to you.”

Makinde's rebuttal underscores ongoing political tensions as both leaders navigate their roles in the lead-up to the 2027 elections. His commitment to transparency in the airport project funding aims to bolster public trust in his administration's financial management.

As the political landscape evolves, this exchange highlights the significance of accurate information in shaping public perception and policy discussions.