The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced that the N712 billion rehabilitation project at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) will significantly enhance Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and passenger experience.
FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday, highlighting the Federal Executive Council’s approval of a comprehensive upgrade of the country’s busiest airport.
According to Kuku, the project underscores Nigeria’s commitment to modernising its main international gateway and aligning with global aviation standards.
“We’re not just rebuilding the terminal; we are elevating Nigeria’s aviation experience to global standards. The new Terminal 1 will offer faster check-in, smarter security, better lounges, and more shopping options—all designed for travellers,” Kuku said.
Scope of the Rehabilitation
The overhaul includes a full-scale rehabilitation and expansion of Terminal 1 (T1), with upgrades to the exterior and interior design, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems.
Terminal 2 (T2) will also be expanded to accommodate more wide-body aircraft, including an extended boarding bridge area and apron. Existing hangars will be relocated to facilitate smooth project execution.
A new road network will be developed to ease congestion and improve access to the airport. A skywalk will connect the car park building to T2, while a connection building will unify Terminals 1 and 2 to enhance passenger flow.
Kuku assured travellers that a clean and well-organised temporary departure hall would be provided during the renovation. She also revealed that the central square landscape would be redesigned to create a more welcoming environment for arriving passengers.
“Your patience today helps us build a better MMIA tomorrow—more vibrant, convenient, and truly world-class,” she said.
Nationwide Airport Upgrades
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the MMIA project, covering Terminal 1 phase 2 and Terminal 2 expansion, forms part of a broader N919.11 billion phased rehabilitation initiative across key Nigerian airports.
Breakdown of other major allocations include:
Kano Airport: N46.39 billion for rehabilitation of Runways 06/26 and 05/23, with airfield lighting upgraded to CAT I.
MMIA (additional works): N49.8 billion for a 10.6 km perimeter fence, operational roads, CCTV, and solar-powered lighting.
Port Harcourt Airport: N42.15 billion for runway and taxiway rehabilitation and lighting upgrade to CAT I.
Lagos Domestic Wing: N44.13 billion for runway and taxiway improvements with CAT II lighting systems.
MMA Domestic Terminal: N26.27 billion for rigid pavement reconstruction of Apron 6 (phases 2 and 3).
Kuku emphasised that these investments would position MMIA and other Nigerian airports as competitive aviation hubs within West Africa and beyond.
“FAAN is not just upgrading infrastructure; we are setting new benchmarks for airport service delivery in Africa,” she concluded.
