The federal government has approved a ₦712 billion upgrade project for the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, transforming it into a world-class facility.
The project includes
– Rehabilitation and Expansion of Terminal 1: Upgrading exterior façade, interior finishes, plumbing systems, and mechanical and electrical installations to meet international standards
– Expansion of Terminal 2: To accommodating more wide-body aircraft by extending the finger and apron areas
– New Road Network: Developing a modern, efficient road network to ease congestion and enhance travel experience
– Connection Building and Skywalk: Integrating car park building with Terminal 2 and linking Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 for improved passenger flow
– Temporary Departure Hall: Establishing a well-organised, clean, and comfortable temporary departure hall during rehabilitation
– Redesigned Central Square Landscape: Creating a welcoming atmosphere for arriving passengers
The project aims to elevate MMIA to an international platform, establishing it as a leading aviation hub in West Africa. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, believes the airport can recoup the investment within three years, given its annual revenue of over ₦200 billion.
According to a statement from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, endorsed by the Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the upgrade will be funded through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund.
Kuku in the statement remarked that FAAN is not just rebuilding the terminal but elevating Nigeria’s aviation to a global standard.
“We are reimagining the future of the MMIA, not just rebuilding a terminal, but elevating Nigeria’s aviation experience to global standards. The new Terminal 1 will offer faster check-in, smarter security, brighter lounges, and better shopping—all built for you.
“This project represents a future-focused infrastructure upgrade and a solemn commitment to every traveller passing through this national gateway.
Your understanding and support today are helping us build the MMIA of tomorrow; more vibrant, convenient, and world-class. Truly the pride of the nation.
“We are undertaking this project so that every departure and return becomes a moment to look forward to. The upgraded terminal will elevate MMIA to an international platform, establishing it as a leading aviation hub in West Africa—becoming a source of national pride and meeting the highest global standards”.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) had last Thursday in Abuja, approved N712 billion for the full rehabilitation, upgrade, and modernisation of MMIA.
The approval was the centrepiece of a sweeping N900 billion aviation infrastructure planned for the country.
However, not every stakeholder is pleased with the project. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the expenditure as “reckless and insensitive”, questioning whether the renovation project and its cost were approved by the National Assembly.
They argued that the aviation sector needs proper maintenance and development of regional airports, rather than a “gold-plated” terminal.
Some other stakeholders kicked against the project saying that FAAN needs to account for the enormous amount it makes from passengers.
But the Aviation Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, has simply asked; “what do Nigerians really want”?