The Chairman of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, Dr Wale Babalakin, has praised President Bola Tinubu for facilitating the resolution of the longstanding dispute over the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two, describing the settlement as a victory for Nigeria and a step towards strengthening investor confidence.
Babalakin made the remarks in a statement issued by the aviation company’s Head of Corporate Communications, Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, on Thursday, according to The PUNCH.
The dispute between the aviation company and the Federal Government stemmed from a decades-long disagreement over the concession agreement for the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two in Lagos.
Babalakin expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and Nigerians who had followed the dispute over the years.
He said, “This is not a win for us alone; it is a win for Nigerians.”
The aviation company’s chairman said the agreement demonstrated that even longstanding disputes between the government and private businesses could be resolved through dialogue, mutual concessions and constructive engagement.
He noted that prolonged uncertainty could discourage investors from committing resources to long-term projects, adding that resolving such disputes sends a positive signal to businesses considering investing in Nigeria.
Babalakin said the agreement presented an opportunity to deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians through infrastructure development, job creation and increased commercial activity.
The statement further stated, “Completing the Hotel and Conference Centre would enhance the airport environment and provide accommodation and conference facilities for business travellers, corporate organisations and other airport users. The project also has the potential to generate employment across construction, engineering, hospitality, facility management and related services.
“The commencement of regional operations, alongside the planned apron expansion, would create opportunities for skilled employment and commercial growth”.
The agreement also addresses outstanding issues arising from the longstanding commercial relationship between the parties, including matters concerning the General Aviation Terminal, which remained under the control and management of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria.
According to the company, the settlement provides for reciprocal concessions and revised obligations designed to establish a framework for future cooperation.
Babalakin acknowledged the responsibility that comes with the agreement, assuring the Federal Government, FAAN and Nigerians that Bi-Courtney would fulfil its obligations and work closely with relevant stakeholders to implement the agreement.
