By Abubakar Yunusa
Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, Executive Director of Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, revealed that Governor Dauda Lawal misled Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo into re-flagging the Gusau Airport project, now set to cost ₦62.8bn.
Shinkafi’s statement highlighted that the previous administration under Bello Matawalle awarded the airport contract for ₦11.4bn and paid the contractor ₦5.8bn.
He emphasized that government projects should be continuous efforts across different administrations.
The Gusau International Cargo Airport’s initial development dates back to former Governor Mahmud Aliyu Shinkafi (2007-2011), who initiated the project and compensated farmers for the land.
However, construction did not commence until Governor Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari’s tenure (2011-2019), which focused on other critical state issues.
Governor Dauda’s recent claims of earmarking ₦13.3bn and spending ₦6.3bn with no progress were called into question by Shinkafi.
He accused Dauda of misleading the public and the Aviation Minister during the re-flagging ceremony.
In a controversial move, Governor Dauda revoked the contract from AVIC International Engineering Limited, which then sought legal redress.
Despite the ongoing court case, Dauda re-awarded the project at a significantly inflated cost of ₦62.8bn, a 600% increase from the original contract.
Shinkafi criticized the waste of taxpayer money on a redundant re-flagging ceremony, suggesting that funds could have been better used for essential services like maintaining the Gusau Water Board.
He stressed that governance should focus on efficient resource management and improving living standards, especially given the state’s struggles with bandit attacks.
Comparatively, the new cost for the Gusau Airport exceeds other Nigerian airport projects, making it one of the country’s most expensive.
Shinkafi called for leadership that aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda for renewed hope, rather than engaging in extravagant, ineffective projects.
Residents of Zamfara State, reminiscing about Bello Matawalle’s administration, yearn for responsible governance. Shinkafi affirmed that advocates for democracy and good governance will continue to challenge policies detrimental to the state’s progress.
