Focus on Aviation Reforms, Not Renaming – NDPC Commissioner

Introduction

Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, Volta Regional Commissioner on the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), has publicly opposed a reported proposal to rename Kotoka International Airport as Accra International Airport. In his statement, Dr. Apetorgbor argues that such a move represents a misplaced policy priority and offers no tangible economic benefits to Ghana. His comments come amid growing public debate over the government’s reported plans to introduce a bill in Parliament to effect the name change.

Key Points

Background

Kotoka International Airport, located in Accra, is Ghana’s main international gateway and one of the busiest airports in West Africa. Named after General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, a key figure in the 1966 coup that overthrew Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the airport has long been at the center of political and historical debates. In recent years, successive governments have invested heavily in expanding and modernizing the facility, including the construction of Terminal 3, to position Accra as a regional aviation hub.

Amid these developments, reports have emerged that the government, through the Ministry of Transport, is preparing to rename the airport as Accra International Airport. This proposal has sparked public debate, with critics questioning its relevance in the current economic climate.

Analysis

Dr. Apetorgbor’s opposition to the renaming proposal is grounded in both economic and strategic reasoning. He argues that changing the name of an airport does not improve its operational performance, reduce costs, expand routes, or increase passenger or cargo volumes. Drawing on his cross-border experience, he notes that naming airports after prominent national figures is a common multinational practice and does not affect performance or competitiveness.

Instead, Dr. Apetorgbor emphasizes that international airports are strategic economic assets whose value lies in efficiency, safety, connectivity, and cost competitiveness, rather than symbolism. He contends that Ghana’s aviation strategy would benefit more from investments in infrastructure, safety systems, and service delivery than from rebranding exercises.

Furthermore, Dr. Apetorgbor raises concerns about the potential costs associated with renaming the airport, including administrative processes, digital systems, and international aviation databases. He warns that such spending could divert scarce resources from more urgent priorities, especially at a time of fiscal strain, rising public debt, and intense pressure on public investment.

Practical Advice

For policymakers and stakeholders in Ghana’s aviation sector, Dr. Apetorgbor’s statement offers several practical insights:

1. **Prioritize Infrastructure and Service Quality**: Focus on investments that directly enhance airport efficiency, safety, and passenger experience.
2. **Evaluate Economic Impact**: Before undertaking major changes, conduct thorough cost-benefit analyses to ensure resources are used effectively.
3. **Maintain Stability**: Recognize that stability and predictability are valuable assets in global air transport.
4. **Engage Stakeholders**: Involve MPs, traditional leaders, diaspora groups, and the public in policy discussions to build consensus and avoid divisive measures.
5. **Promote Policy Discipline**: Encourage political leaders to prioritize reforms that deliver measurable economic benefits and support national development goals.

FAQ

Conclusion

Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor’s strong opposition to the proposed renaming of Kotoka International Airport underscores the importance of prioritizing meaningful reforms over symbolic gestures in Ghana’s aviation sector. By focusing on infrastructure, safety, and service quality, Ghana can enhance its position as a regional aviation hub and deliver tangible economic benefits to its citizens. As the debate continues, it is crucial for policymakers to heed such expert advice and ensure that national development is driven by performance, competitiveness, and results—not by changes in designation.