“Longstanding Disputes Can Be Resolved Through Dialogue” — Babalakin SAN Hails Tinubu, Keyamo SAN Over MMA2 Settlement

Babalakin spoke at the signing ceremony of the settlement agreement involving the Federal Government, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Bi-Courtney Limited and Stabilini Visinoni Limited, which brought to an end an impasse that had lasted more than 18 years.

He attributed the breakthrough to President Tinubu’s intervention through the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Olorogun Festus Keyamo, SAN.

“This is not a win for us alone; it is a win for Nigerians,” Babalakin said, while expressing appreciation to the President, the Minister and Nigerians who had followed the dispute over the years.

According to him, the resolution demonstrates that longstanding disagreements between government and private businesses can be resolved through dialogue, negotiation and constructive engagement.

He noted that prolonged uncertainty over commercial agreements could discourage long-term investment, adding that the settlement would help strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s investment environment.

Babalakin also pledged that Bi-Courtney would fulfil its obligations under the agreement and pursue projects expected to create quality employment opportunities for Nigerians.

The settlement is expected to pave the way for the advancement of key development projects at MMA2, including the proposed hotel and conference centre, as well as the commencement of regional flight operations.

Babalakin said the completion of the hotel and conference centre would improve the airport environment by providing accommodation and conference facilities for business travellers, corporate organisations and other airport users.

He added that the project could generate employment across construction, engineering, hospitality, facility management and related services.

The commencement of regional flight operations, alongside the planned expansion of the airport apron, is also expected to create opportunities for skilled employment and broader commercial activity.

The agreement further addresses outstanding issues arising from the parties’ longstanding commercial relationship, including matters relating to the General Aviation Terminal, which remained under FAAN’s control and operation.

It also incorporates reciprocal concessions and revised obligations, providing a framework for the parties to move forward after years of dispute.

Babalakin acknowledged that the settlement placed a responsibility on Bi-Courtney to translate the agreement into tangible results and assured stakeholders that the company would meet its obligations and work constructively with all relevant parties.

“We will not disappoint the President, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, FAAN or Nigerians,” he said.

He reiterated his appreciation to President Tinubu for facilitating the resolution, describing the agreement as an opportunity to renew cooperation, deliver critical infrastructure projects and realise the full potential of MMA2.