The House of Representatives has urged the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace to halt the issuance of airstrip licences to private individuals and organisations, citing national security concerns.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the call came after Rep. Sulaiman Gumi (APC-Zamfara) introduced a motion at Wednesday’s plenary in Abuja.
The House also recommended revoking existing licences for private airstrips to strengthen national security safeguards.
Presenting the motion, Gumi highlighted that Federal Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo had confirmed the approval of an airstrip for Bishop David Oyedepo’s Living Faith Church, also known as Winners Chapel, located in Ota, Ogun State.
On Oct. 6, the church’s founder, Bishop David Oyedepo, had informed his congregation of the federal government’s authorisation for the airstrip.
Gumi referenced a 2014 incident in which a prominent religious leader was reportedly connected to a private jet that transported $9.3 million in cash to South Africa, allegedly for arms purchases.
The jet, which was confiscated by South African authorities, had two Nigerians and an Israeli on board.
“The country is facing severe security challenges from the illegal importation and proliferation of firearms, ammunition, and illicit drugs,” Gumi stated.
He expressed concern that allowing private airstrips could exacerbate these issues by enabling illegal arms and drug trafficking, fuelling insurgency, kidnapping, and other criminal activities.
House Speaker Rep. Tajudeen Abbas has directed the Committees on Aviation and Legislative Compliance to monitor and enforce the House’s recommendations.