NAMA Headquarters Contract Sparks Controversy Over N21.68bn Award

The Federal Government’s award of a N21.68 billion contract for the construction of a new headquarters for the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has drawn public attention following reports about the background of the contractor.

Last week, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo announced that the first phase of the project in Abuja had been awarded to Messrs NHD Interbiz Projects Ltd. The facility is expected to serve as a modern centre for air traffic management at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and is projected for completion within 30 months.

However, the contract has generated controversy due to the company’s alleged links to businessman Nasiru Haladu Danu, who has previously faced investigations and public allegations relating to financial misconduct. Danu has denied wrongdoing in past cases and has, at different times, challenged allegations against him in court.

Past Allegations and Investigations

Reports indicate that Danu was arrested in the United Kingdom in 2019 over alleged passport-related and financial issues, although he has not been convicted in connection with those claims. He has also been linked to previous government contracts during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

In 2021, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) reportedly investigated allegations concerning the diversion of public funds involving several officials and private entities. Former EFCC chairman Abdulrasheed Bawa led some of the probes at the time. No court conviction has been publicly confirmed in relation to those investigations.

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The EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) have not publicly commented on the latest contract award.

Government Response and Wider Political Context

Officials within the administration of President Bola Tinubu have maintained that due process was followed in awarding contracts and that projects are being executed in line with procurement regulations.

The NAMA headquarters project is part of broader efforts to upgrade aviation infrastructure in Nigeria. However, critics argue that greater transparency is needed in contractor selection processes, especially for high-value public projects.

The presidency has consistently denied allegations of corruption, stating that its policies and contract awards are aimed at improving economic performance and infrastructure delivery across the country.

As debate continues, attention is likely to focus on procurement procedures, regulatory oversight, and the broader issue of accountability in public infrastructure spending.