Get Guardian on Google…Hails successive administrations
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has commended successive administrations in the state for sustaining the vision and development plans for the Lekki-Epe corridor, following Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s announcement that construction of the proposed Epe International Airport would commence in 2027.
The party described the planned commencement as a significant milestone in the economic transformation of Epe Division, noting that the project was part of a broader development vision initiated under President Bola Tinubu’s administration as governor of Lagos State.
Sanwo-Olu made the announcement during the Lagos East APC governorship election campaign flag-off in Epe, while his deputy and the party’s governorship candidate, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to the project, disclosing that the necessary groundwork and documentation had been advanced.
In a statement issued by the Lagos APC spokesman, Mogaji Seye Oladejo, the party said the proposed airport represented the gradual realisation of a long-term economic plan to position the Lekki-Epe axis as a major investment, industrial and commercial hub.
It traced the foundation of the development agenda to Tinubu’s administration, which it credited with initiating the strategic groundwork for the Lekki Free Trade Zone and land allocation that paved the way for the establishment of the Dangote Refinery.
The party also acknowledged the contributions of former governors Babatunde Fashola and Akinwunmi Ambode, particularly in sustaining infrastructure development, improving connectivity and advancing the airport project.
It said Ambode’s administration made significant contributions to the proposed airport through strategic planning, preparatory initiatives and its incorporation into the broader Epe development master plan.
The APC further commended Sanwo-Olu for building on the foundations laid by his predecessors through major infrastructure investments, including the Lekki Deep Sea Port and Lagos Coastal Road.
According to the party, the proposed airport would complete an integrated economic network comprising the Dangote Refinery, Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lekki Deep Sea Port and Lagos Coastal Road.
It said the aviation facility, when completed, would improve connectivity, facilitate international trade, support industrial expansion, boost tourism, create employment opportunities and attract further domestic and foreign investments.
The party expressed confidence in the assurances given by Sanwo-Olu and Hamzat, describing their commitment as evidence of institutional continuity and determination to move the project from planning to implementation.
It also suggested that naming the airport after Tinubu would be an enduring tribute to his foresight and contribution to the development of the Lekki-Epe corridor.
The APC, however, stressed the need for the anticipated economic expansion to translate into tangible benefits for residents of Epe Division through employment, improved infrastructure, business opportunities, skills development and inclusive growth.
It noted that Epe, traditionally known for its agricultural and fishing activities, was steadily emerging as a destination for industrial investment, international commerce, logistics, aviation and tourism.
The party said the development trajectory of Epe and the wider Lagos East axis would feature prominently in public discussions on governance and performance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It maintained that sustainable development required successive administrations to build on established foundations rather than abandon existing plans.
Oladejo commended Tinubu for the original development vision, Fashola and Ambode for their contributions, and Sanwo-Olu for advancing the agenda and renewing assurances on the airport project. He also acknowledged Hamzat’s commitment to sustaining the development trajectory.
“The story of Epe is ultimately a story of vision, continuity and transformation. From Tinubu’s original blueprint through Fashola’s and Ambode’s contributions to Sanwo-Olu’s ongoing interventions, a new economic future is taking shape,” the statement said.
