Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has defended the Federal Government’s decision to allocate ₦712 billion for the renovation of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, describing the investment as vital for Nigeria’s aviation future and economic growth.
In a detailed statement issued on Sunday, Keyamo clarified that the renovation, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), will not only modernize Nigeria’s busiest airport but also address long-standing infrastructure decay that has hindered efficient operations and passenger comfort.
The minister revealed that the renovation plan includes a complete stripping and reconstruction of Terminal One, originally commissioned in 1979 during the Obasanjo military regime. Over the years, the terminal has deteriorated, and according to Keyamo, patchwork fixes have failed to meet international standards.
“We are not just renovating—we are rebuilding. Terminal One will be stripped down to its carcass, reconfigured, and reconstructed with modern design, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems,” Keyamo said.
The terminal’s two wings—D and E—will be fully overhauled, with CCECC handling the contract. The aim is to deliver a world-class facility capable of handling the increasing air traffic in Lagos, which far exceeds the original capacity of the 1970s-era structure.
Keyamo also announced expansion works for Terminal Two, the newer terminal constructed with Chinese funding and completed during President Buhari’s administration. The terminal will be enhanced with:
A larger apron space to accommodate wide-body aircraft
Construction of dedicated access roads for arrivals and departures
A departure lounge bridge for easier access and baggage handling
Smart airport solutions to streamline passenger processing and safety
“We are correcting past design flaws. Escalators shouldn’t be the only means of carrying luggage to the upper floor. We’re fixing this with a direct access bridge,” he explained.
Importantly, the aviation minister emphasized that the ₦712 billion will not be sourced through foreign loans. Instead, it will be fully funded through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, a mechanism made possible by savings from the fuel subsidy removal.
“No loans. This will be funded from within. Nigerians will be proud of what we deliver,” Keyamo affirmed.
To ensure transparency and accountability, Keyamo disclosed plans to involve media, civil society, and lawmakers in site inspections and progress evaluations throughout the renovation process.
“This is a national project. We will regularly invite stakeholders to inspect the work and ensure quality delivery,” he said.
Keyamo also urged Nigerians to view the project within a global context. He pointed out that similar airport renovations in Angola, Kenya, and Egypt have cost significantly more.
“People can Google the costs of new airports around the world. Our procurement process was thorough and BPP ensured we got value,” he added.
While Lagos remains the hub of Nigeria’s air traffic, Keyamo acknowledged that new terminals in Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt are underutilized—operating at below 30% capacity. The Lagos airport upgrade, he noted, is essential because of its central role in Nigeria’s economy and international travel.
In a final note, Keyamo revealed that a video presentation showcasing the full scope of the project is available for public viewing to foster deeper understanding and transparency.
The Lagos airport renovation, when completed, is expected to redefine the face of Nigerian aviation, boost tourism, and enhance Nigeria’s standing in international air travel rankings.