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Reps approve N24bn refund to Kebbi, Nasarawa States for airport takeover

Published

6 months ago

October 3, 2024

The House of Representatives has given its nod to President Bola Tinubu’s request for a refund of approximately N24 billion to the Kebbi and Nasarawa state governments.

This reimbursement is for the federal government’s takeover of two airports built by the two states.

The approval was granted on Thursday after the House dissolved into a Committee of Supply to consider the report on the request. The Chairman of the Committee on Aids, Loans and Debts Management, Abubakar Nalaraba, submitted the report.

Airport Construction Costs

Kebbi State spent N15 billion to construct the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in Birnin Kebbi, while Nasarawa State Government spent N9 billion for the construction of the Lafia Cargo Airport.

Presidential Request

President Tinubu, in a letter dated May 16, 2024, addressed to House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, urged the legislative chamber to refund the costs incurred by the two states in constructing the airports. The letter stated:

“Establishment of a promissory note programme in favour of the Kebbi and Nasarawa State governments for the reimbursement of the respective costs of the construction of newly-built airports in those states that had been taken over by the Federal Government.”

Approved Refund

While Kebbi State will receive a refund of N15.14 billion, Nasarawa State will get a total sum of N9.54 billion, based on claims made by both states.

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