The House of Representatives on Thursday approved President Bola Tinubu’s request for a refund of approximately N24 billion to the Kebbi and Nasarawa state governments for the takeover of two newly built airports in their regions.

The refund consists of N15 billion to the Kebbi State Government for the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in Birnin Kebbi, and N9 billion to the Nasarawa State Government for the Lafia Cargo Airport. Both airports, constructed by the state governments, have been taken over by the Federal Government.

In a letter dated May 16, 2024, addressed to the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, President Tinubu urged the House to approve the reimbursement via a promissory note programme. This request was originally approved at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on May 23, 2023.

The President’s letter stated, “The House of Representatives is invited to note that at the Executive Council meeting of the Federal Executive Council, it was approved… that a promissory note be issued to Nasarawa State Government for N9 billion and to Kebbi State Government for N15 billion.”

On Thursday, the House dissolved into a Committee of Supply to consider the report submitted by Mr. Abubakar Nalaraba, Chairman of the Committee on Aids, Loans, and Debts Management. Following deliberations, the House approved the reimbursement.