Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has
revealed that the Federal Government is investing about $500 million to
modernise aviation infrastructure at Murtala Muhammed International Airport
(MMIA), as part of efforts to reposition the country’s air transport sector.
Speaking at an aviation investment summit in Lagos,
Keyamo said the scale of the project reflects Nigeria’s ambition to strengthen
one of Africa’s busiest aviation gateways.
He emphasized that the funding for the project was
provided directly by the government, without borrowing, and confirmed that
contractors are already on-site.
22-Month Timeline for Major Overhaul
According to the minister, the extensive upgrade is
expected to be completed within 22 months. The project, valued at ?712 billion
and approved by the Federal Executive Council, involves a full transformation
of the airport rather than routine maintenance.
Keyamo noted that President Bola Tinubu is
prioritizing aviation infrastructure as a key driver of economic growth and
connectivity.
Abuja Second Runway Gets Approval
In addition to the Lagos upgrade, the minister
announced that the President has approved the construction of a second runway
at the Abuja airport.
He explained that work, which had previously stalled
due to instability in Niger, will now resume immediately, with assurances that
the project will be delivered promptly.
MMIA Structure and Expansion Plans
Lagos currently relies on MMIA as its primary
international gateway, with two main terminals:
A newer international terminal has also been
introduced to expand capacity and improve passenger experience through modern
features such as automated check-in systems.
Looking ahead, plans are underway for the development
of a new airport in the Lekki-Epe corridor. The proposed facility is expected
to support growing industrial activities in the Lekki Free Trade Zone and ease
pressure on existing infrastructure.
Fire Incident Accelerates Reforms
Recent events have underscored the urgency of the
ongoing overhaul. In February 2026, a fire outbreak at the old international
terminal caused significant damage after starting in the IT server room.
Several airport personnel were rescued, though some
sustained minor injuries. The incident also destroyed key communication
equipment belonging to aviation authorities, forcing temporary flight
diversions to Abuja.
Following the incident, Keyamo ordered the demolition
of the affected terminal, fast-tracking reconstruction efforts.
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