The House of Representatives has directed the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to immediately cease issuing airstrip licenses to private individuals and organizations.
This decision aims to withdraw any previously granted approvals to enhance national security.
The resolution was adopted during a plenary session on Wednesday, following a motion of urgent public importance introduced by Hon. Sulaiman Abubakar Gumi, the representative for Gummi/Bukkuyum federal constituency in Zamfara State.
Gumi highlighted concerns regarding recent airstrip approvals, specifically mentioning the license granted for an airstrip to Living Faith Church in Ota, Ogun State, which was confirmed by Minister Festus Keyamo.
Gumi recounted that during a special edition of Tehillah Night on October 6, 2024, Bishop David Oyedepo, the Founder of Living Faith Church, informed his congregation about the government’s approval for the airstrip at Canaanland.
Gumi expressed apprehension, recalling a 2014 incident where a prominent religious figure was linked to a private jet carrying $9.3 million in cash intended for arms purchases, leading to security concerns regarding illegal activities tied to airstrips.
He emphasized the current security challenges Nigeria faces, including the illegal importation of firearms and drugs, stating, “Granting airstrips to private individuals and organizations will aid illegal importation of firearms and hard drugs into the country, thus heightening insurgency, kidnapping, banditry, and other vices that are seriously affecting the socio-economic development of the country.”
Following the motion’s adoption, the House has tasked its Committees on Aviation and Legislative Compliance to ensure adherence to this resolution.
