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Onoh Clears Air On Relocating Nigeria’s Capital From Abuja to Lagos

Josef Onoh, a former South-East spokesman to President Bola Tinubu, has dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu plans to relocate Nigeria’s capital to Lagos. The speculation arose after an opinion article by Mohammed Bello Doka suggested regional favoritism and a stealth relocation through administrative and budgetary decisions.

Onoh acknowledged that concerns about equitable development are valid in a federation but stated that Doka’s claims misrepresented facts. He expressed disappointment that the narrative was amplified by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, whom he respects despite negative perceptions surrounding him.

Onoh also criticized President Tinubu’s media team for failing to effectively communicate and defend his policies to Nigerians and the international community in a manner befitting the presidency.

Addressing the relocation of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) headquarters, Onoh described the allegation as absurd, clarifying that FAAN’s return to Lagos in 2024 was for operational efficiency. He noted that over 60% of Nigeria’s air traffic is handled in Lagos, and the previous move to Abuja under the last administration led to logistical challenges, including inadequate office space and excessive travel costs.

Onoh revealed that he had discussed the matter with the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, over a year ago, who emphasized the move would save over ₦450–500 million annually in travel expenses and followed consultations with stakeholders, including unions.