House of Representatives Calls on Aviation Minister to Revoke Living Faith Church’s Airstrip License

In a recent plenary session, the Nigerian House of Representatives urged Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo to revoke airstrip licenses granted to Living Faith Church, founded by Bishop David Oyedepo, and other private entities. The lawmakers cited national security concerns, arguing that private airstrips could facilitate the illegal importation of firearms, ammunition, and drugs, further exacerbating Nigeria’s security challenges.

The motion, titled “Need to Stop Issuance of Airstrip Licenses to Private Individuals and Organizations,” was presented by Rep. Sulaiman Abubakar Gumi. During his address, Gumi referenced recent confirmation that the Federal Government had approved an airstrip for Living Faith Church, located in Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State. Bishop Oyedepo had also recently shared this news with his congregation.

Gumi raised additional concerns by recalling a 2014 incident in which a private jet linked to a Nigerian religious leader was seized in South Africa for allegedly transporting $9.3 million in cash intended for arms purchases. Highlighting Nigeria’s current issues with insurgency, kidnapping, and banditry, Gumi argued that private airstrips could potentially worsen the situation by providing channels for illegal trade and weapon proliferation.

In response to the motion, the House called on the Committees on Aviation and Legislative Compliance to ensure that necessary steps are taken to halt the issuance of airstrip licenses to private entities and that Minister Keyamo’s office adheres to the recommendation.