The Federal Government on Monday dismissed reports claiming it had agreed to a predetermined concession duration for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA), Enugu.
A report had alleged that the Federal Government planned to concession the AIIA to a private firm under a finance, rehabilitate, operate, and transfer (FROT) arrangement for 80 years.
However, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development clarified that, although it is considering proposals for the concession of five major airports, the process is still undergoing thorough evaluation.
Mr. Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, made this known in a statement.
Moshood explained that the decision to concession the airports is a proactive measure aimed at ensuring that these critical infrastructure facilities meet and maintain international standards.
The statement read:
“Our attention has been drawn to certain online reports suggesting that a lengthy concession period has already been agreed upon for the Enugu International Airport. These reports are entirely baseless and untrue.
“While it is true that the Federal Government is considering proposals for the concession of five major airports, this is part of a proactive effort to ensure these facilities can meet international standards, given the increasing financial demands of their operations. Many of our airports currently operate at a loss and require monthly subsidies from the Federal Government. It is important to note that the concession initiative began under previous administrations.
“At this stage, prospective concessionaires have submitted various proposals, including differing durations. However, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has not approved any fixed duration. All submitted proposals are still undergoing rigorous evaluation and will be reviewed by the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) before being forwarded to the Minister and, subsequently, to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval.
“For transparency, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, had earlier directed that aviation labour unions be included in the negotiating teams.
“Therefore, we must state unequivocally that the information suggesting a predetermined concession duration is false, unfounded, and aimed at sowing disaffection and mistrust in the process by individuals with vested interests.
“Please be assured that the Ministry remains committed to a transparent process that adheres strictly to due process. Given his training and track record, the Minister will not allow anything untoward to occur under his watch. He has thus far managed the Ministry transparently and will not repeat the mistakes of the past. All decisions will be made in the best interest of the nation and the aviation sector.”
