The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a record-breaking ₦712 billion for the comprehensive rehabilitation and expansion of key airport infrastructure, with Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, receiving the bulk of the investment. The approval was granted during Thursday’s FEC meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Lagos International Terminal One to Undergo Total Rebuild
The centrepiece of the package is the complete overhaul of MMIA’s Terminal One, awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). Valued at ₦469.74 billion, the project will strip the terminal down to its structural frame and replace all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, according to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
“We’re rebuilding from the carcass up. This administration has abandoned patchwork repairs for permanent solutions,” Keyamo stated.
The project is scheduled to last 22 months and is fully funded through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund.
Terminal Two Expansion and Security Upgrades
In addition, ₦242.52 billion was approved for the expansion of Terminal Two, which includes aprons, air bridges, access roads, and support infrastructure.
To bolster airport security, ₦49.9 billion has been allocated for a 14.6km perimeter fence at MMIA. The fence will be equipped with intrusion detection sensors, solar-powered lighting, CCTV surveillance, and patrol roads, all linked to a modern command and control centre for real-time monitoring.
“Any intrusion along the fence will be instantly detected, and the exact coordinates will be transmitted,” Keyamo explained.
Additional Nationwide Airport Upgrades
Other airport upgrade approvals include:
- ₦46.39 billion for Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, covering runway and taxiway rehabilitation, and Category II airfield lighting (expected completion in 24 weeks).
- ₦42.14 billion for similar upgrades at Port Harcourt International Airport.
- ₦44.13 billion for Category II LED lighting upgrades on MMIA’s Runway 18L/36R and Taxiways B and C (30-week duration).
- ₦24.27 billion for the reconstruction and expansion of 82,000 sqm of apron space at Lagos Domestic Terminal, to ease aircraft movement and reduce congestion (timeline: 17.5 months).
A Turning Point for Nigerian Aviation
The ₦712 billion allocation marks the largest single aviation investment concentrated in one location in Nigeria’s history. According to Keyamo, the goal is to transform Nigerian airports into modern, efficient, and secure gateways, aligned with global aviation standards.
“Our airports are national gateways. This is about image, efficiency, and safety,” he said.
Stakeholders React
The bold investment is seen as a critical step in strengthening Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, enhancing safety, boosting cargo and passenger traffic, and improving investor confidence.
Stakeholders across the aviation, logistics, and business sectors have welcomed the move but stress that execution, transparency, and timely delivery will be key to maintaining public and industry trust.
If implemented effectively, the rehabilitation and upgrades are expected to transform MMIA into a truly world-class hub and elevate Nigeria’s standing in global aviation.
