The Management of Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2) has clarified that the recent upward review of tariffs at its Multi-Storey Car Park (MSCP) is a necessary operational response aimed at tackling worsening congestion, curbing long-term vehicle abandonment, and restoring parking access for genuine airport users.
According to the management, the decision was driven by persistent misuse of the facility, which has increasingly been converted into a long-term parking space by non-airport users. Vehicles have reportedly been left unattended for extended periods; ranging from days and weeks to months and, in extreme cases, years—placing significant strain on the system.
MMA2 noted that such practices have severely limited parking availability for passengers and legitimate terminal users, often forcing them to spend over 30 minutes searching for space. In some instances, this has resulted in missed flights and increased traffic congestion around drop-off and pick-up zones.
The terminal operator emphasised that the MSCP was originally designed for short-term parking to support passenger movement and business activities within the airport, not as a storage facility or general-purpose parking area for the surrounding community.
Beyond operational inefficiencies, management also raised security concerns linked to abandoned vehicles, noting that prolonged parking complicates surveillance and heightens risk exposure. Several such vehicles have had to be identified and relocated to secure holding areas, underscoring the urgency of stricter parking control measures.
MMA2 further stressed that maintaining its strong safety and security record considered among the best in the country comes at a growing operational cost, particularly with the added burden of monitoring long-term parked vehicles.
The revised tariff, it said, is therefore not revenue-driven but designed to discourage extended parking, improve space turnover, and ensure that parking slots are readily available for passengers and other legitimate users.
The management reaffirmed its commitment to providing a safe, efficient, and seamless airport experience, while appealing for the understanding and cooperation of passengers, visitors, and stakeholders as the new measures take effect.