Tinubu’s N712bn airport renovation plan misplaced priority–ADC

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned the federal government’s decision to spend over N712 billion on renovating the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, describing the move as extravagant and insensitive to the pressing needs of Nigerians.

In a statement issued Sunday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC accused the Bola Tinubu administration of prioritising vanity projects over essential public services at a time when millions of Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship.

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) strongly rejects the shocking N712 billion airport renovation plan announced by the Tinubu government, calling it yet another clear example of careless spending and lack of concern for the people,” the statement read.

The party argued that the renovation plan for an airport that has already undergone significant upgrades in recent years is not only unnecessary but also reflects a disconnect between the government and the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.

According to the ADC, the allocation of such a massive amount of money to a single infrastructure project—especially one that does not address core developmental needs—underscores the administration’s misplaced priorities.

“This kind of decision shows just how disconnected the APC-led government has become from the real struggles that ordinary Nigerians face every day,” the statement said.

READ ALSO: FG approves N712bn overhaul of Lagos Airport, other airports to get upgrades

The party pointed out that many public schools lack basic teaching tools, hospitals are under-resourced, and millions of citizens continue to endure poverty, unemployment, and inflation—all of which should command more urgent attention and funding from the federal government.

Rather than another high-end renovation of a single terminal, the ADC advocated for a broader and more inclusive approach to developing Nigeria’s aviation sector.

“The aviation sector does not need another gold-plated terminal. What it truly needs is consistent maintenance of existing infrastructure and strategic investment in regional airports that would enhance connectivity and drive economic growth across the country,” the party said.

The statement called for the redirection of public funds toward more impactful sectors like education, healthcare, job creation, and rural development.

This criticism adds to growing public scrutiny of the federal government’s spending patterns, as citizens and civil society groups increasingly question the administration’s fiscal decisions amid reports of rising national debt and worsening living conditions.

The ADC concluded by urging President Tinubu to reconsider the project and adopt policies that reflect empathy, fiscal discipline, and a genuine commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.

“Leadership must be about people, not prestige,” the party said. “And at this time in our national life, every naira must count.”