Misplaced Priorities- Ekiti's N3.8 Billion Housing Project for a Non-Operational Airport.

 Misplaced Priorities-  Ekiti's N3.8 Billion Housing Project for a Non-Operational Airport.

The recent allocation of N3.8 billion for housing development at the yet-to-takeoff Ekiti State Airport raises serious questions about the state's budgetary priorities.


 Given the state's pressing socio-economic challenges, including unemployment, poverty, poor social amenities, and hunger, it is disheartening to witness such wasteful expenditure.


The Airport's Non-Operational Status.


Nearly three years after its commissioning, the airport remains non-operational, with no airlines showing interest due to the prevailing economic situation. 


The high cost of air travel in Nigeria further deters potential operators. Moreover, Ekiti's economic landscape lacks the robust export-oriented industries that would justify a cargo airport.


Alternative Uses for Funds.


The N3.8 billion allocation could be better utilized to empower over 2,000 Ekiti entrepreneurs and SMEs, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. 


Alternatively, it could fund the purchase of over 100 electric-powered buses or cars for township transportation, reducing reliance on motorcycles.


A Call for Reassessment.


With over N40 billion spent on the airport project since its inception, Ekiti State's leadership must reassess its priorities. It is essential to prioritize projects that drive economic growth, job creation, and improved living standards for Ekiti's citizens.


 Leveraging private sector investment for airport staff housing, rather than diverting public funds, would be a more pragmatic approach.


A Need for Strategic Thinkers.


Given the state's numerous socio-economic challenges, it is crucial for Governor Oyebanji to surround himself with a team of strategic thinkers who can provide informed guidance on budgetary allocations and project prioritization.


Asiwaju Olubunmi Oluwadare, NBDSP


Author- I SEE MONEY IN AFRICA. 


Founder. www.uni-preneur.com www.getajob.ng 


#ekititrends #cargoairport

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Iyin-Ekiti Kingdom Welcomes Home a Hero: Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele CON (MOB)

Image
 Iyin-Ekiti Kingdom Welcomes Home a Hero- Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele CON (MOB) The people of Iyin-Ekiti Kingdom recently celebrated the homecoming of their beloved son, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele CON, also known as MOB.  As the Senate Majority Leader at the Nigeria National Assembly , Senator Bamidele has been instrumental in facilitating socio-economic development in his constituency, particularly in his ancestral hometown of Iyin-Ekiti, Ekiti State,South West, Nigeria.  A warm welcome ceremony, which kicked off from Ekiti State Cargo Airport, was attended by a large crowd of youths, artisans, politicians, religious leaders, and traditional leaders.  His Royal Majesty Oba Adeola Adeniyi Ajakaiye, Oyinyosaiye III, The Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti Kingdom, received Senator Opeyemi Bamidele at his Palace arcade, accompanied by all Iyin-Ekiti traditional Chiefs, religious leaders, women leaders, youths, and Iyin-Ekiti sons and daughters. The highlight of the event w...
Read more

Iyin-Ekiti- A Town on the Rise.

Image
 Iyin-Ekiti- A Town on the Rise. The recent announcement of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences has brought Iyin-Ekiti, a town in Ekiti State, Nigeria, into the spotlight.  As the town prepares to host this prestigious institution, its website www.iyinekiti.com.ng has witnessed an unprecedented surge in visitors eager to learn more about this vibrant community. It's no coincidence that Iyin-Ekiti is the first and only town with a functional website in the state and entire southwest Nigeria.  This demonstrates that our town is tech-savvy and worthy of hosting the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences. Iyin-Ekiti boasts a rich history, with its name meaning "praise" in the local dialect.  The town has produced notable personalities, including former Governor of the Western State, General Robert Adeyinka Adebayo, and is home to several cultural and tourism sites, such as the Esa Cave, Abanijorin Mountain, and other uniqu...
Read more

IYIN KINGDOM UNVEILS OFFICIAL CREST LOGO AHEAD OF HISTORIC 2025 CELEBRATIONS.

Image
IYIN KINGDOM UNVEILS OFFICIAL CREST LOGO AHEAD OF HISTORIC 2025 CELEBRATIONS. Iyin-Ekiti, Nigeria - In a vibrant and symbolic ceremony, the Oluyin of Iyin, His Royal Majesty Oba Adeola Adeniyi Ajakaiye, Oyinyosaiye Uyin III, officially has unveiled the Crest Logo of the Iyin-Ekiti Kingdom. The Crest Logo, symbolizing the unity, tradition, culture, heritage, natural resources and people of Iyin Kingdom, as well as its future aspirations, was formally presented to His Royal Majesty by Pastor Remi Obaparusi, Chairman of the Central Organizing Committee for Iyin-Ekiti Day 2025. The unveiling marks a major milestone in the build-up to the highly anticipated Iyin-Ekiti Day 2025, which will be a three-in-one celebration: commemorating Kabiyesi’s 5th anniversary on the throne, Iyin-Ekiti Unity at 75 and the vibrant annual Iyin-Ekiti Day celebration.  This historic event promises to be a spectacular showcase of the Kingdom’s cultural wealth, unity and progress. Expressing his delight and ap...
Read more