The Initiative for Grassroot Advancement in Nigeria (INGRA) has raised concerns over the planned ₦50 billion international airport project in Kogi State, urging the government to balance ambition with economic realities and pressing development needs.

In a press statement issued on Friday, the Executive Director, Comrade Hamza Ibrahim, acknowledged the potential benefits of the proposed airport but warned that its long-term sustainability would depend on clear demand, strategic positioning, and integration into a broader economic framework.

INGRA noted that projections indicating the airport could handle about 250,000 passengers annually may not justify the huge investment, especially when compared to established hubs such as the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, which records over five million passengers yearly.

The group further observed that several state-owned airports across the country, including those in Jigawa, Ebonyi, Ekiti and Bayelsa states, have struggled with low traffic, irregular flight operations and poor economic returns despite significant capital outlay.

It warned that Kogi State’s proximity to Abuja could lead to duplication rather than the creation of new demand, thereby increasing the risk of underutilisation.

On development priorities, INGRA stressed that investment in housing, healthcare, education and road infrastructure would deliver more immediate and widespread benefits to residents.

“Evidence consistently shows that social infrastructure improves living standards, enhances productivity and stimulates local economies,” the statement noted, adding that large-scale aviation projects typically thrive only in already active economic environments.

The group also highlighted the opportunity cost of committing ₦50 billion to the airport project, arguing that such funds could significantly address housing deficits, improve road networks and strengthen public services across the state.

While acknowledging potential opportunities, INGRA said the airport could still succeed if strategically aligned with broader economic goals. It pointed to Kogi State’s central location as an advantage for developing a logistics and agro-export hub, provided there is strong integration with road networks, industrial clusters and key sectors such as agriculture and mining.

However, it cautioned that without careful planning, private sector participation and sustained investment, the project could become a financial burden due to high maintenance costs and possible debt financing.

INGRA therefore called on the Kogi State Government to adopt a phased, data-driven approach to the project, anchored on transparency, fiscal responsibility and measurable outcomes.

The group maintained that infrastructure development must go beyond ambition to reflect the real needs of the people and deliver inclusive economic value.

“The long-term success of this project will depend not on its scale, but on its relevance, utilisation and contribution to the overall development of Kogi State,” the statement added. (TRIBUNE)