Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has said that the Lagos State government is yet to submit an official declaration of intent to the authority for the commencement of Construction work on the Lagos State Airport, Ibeju-Lekki.
Speaking during a meeting between the governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-olu and the NCAA, the acting director-general of the authority, Capt Chris Najomo, said it is required for the Authority to provide technical guidance and regulatory oversight.
According to Najomo, the state government must submit the declaration to the authority at least 180 days prior to the commencement of the construction work.
“The Authority had received approval for the project from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. However, the Lagos State Government had not yet submitted an official declaration of intent to the NCAA, which is required for the Authority to provide technical guidance and regulatory oversight. In accordance with Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs), the Lagos State Government must submit this declaration at least 180 days prior to the commencement of construction.”
Captain Najomo, however, assured governor Sanwo-olu of the NCAA’s commitment to supporting the project, in line with Nigeria’s ease of doing business policy.
He further urged the Lagos State Government to submit the necessary documents to enable the Authority guide them through the requirements for obtaining the Authority’s approval for the airport’s construction.
Responding, the governor of Lagos State, said the state government has approved 4,000 hectares of land for the proposed airport.
The governor concluded by reiterating that collaboration with federal agencies would lead to better outcomes for the project.
“4,000 hectares of land had been earmarked for the proposed Ibeju-Lekki Airport. We express gratitude to the NCAA for their participation in the meeting. The engagement was encouraging. Also, the collaboration with federal agencies would lead to better outcomes for the project.”
The governor noted that the idea of an additional airport was first considered in 2008. A feasibility study conducted between 2008 and 2010 concluded that the project was viable. However, due to unforeseen setbacks, progress was delayed.
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted significant developments in the eastern part of Lagos, where several industries have been established.
“This growth renewed the State Government’s determination to revisit the airport project. The discussions had taken place with the former Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Senator Hadi Sirika, who had granted approval for the establishment of an aerodrome in Ibeju-Lekki,” the governor stated.
