By John Umeh
The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a massive N712 billion for the full rehabilitation and modernization of Terminal One of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. This historic investment marks a significant step toward revitalizing the country’s aviation infrastructure and enhancing passenger experience at one of West Africa’s busiest travel hubs.
The announcement was made following the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held in Abuja, where Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, confirmed the approval. According to the minister, the project aims to transform the aging terminal into a world-class facility that meets international safety, security, and operational standards.
Keyamo noted that the overhaul is long overdue, as Terminal One, built over 40 years ago, has suffered from neglect, congestion, and outdated systems. The comprehensive rehabilitation will involve structural reconstruction, advanced security upgrades, expanded passenger handling capacity, and the integration of modern technological solutions to ease operations.
“This is a legacy project that will redefine air travel in Nigeria,” Keyamo stated. “Terminal One remains a gateway to our nation for millions of international travelers. We must ensure it reflects the image and ambition of a modern Nigeria.”
The decision to commit N712 billion to the terminal’s transformation underscores the government’s focus on infrastructure development as a driver of economic growth. Officials say the project will not only improve user experience but also create thousands of direct and indirect jobs during and after the construction phase.
Stakeholders in the aviation sector have welcomed the news, describing it as a much-needed boost for Nigeria’s aviation competitiveness. Industry experts note that the new terminal design is expected to align with global trends in energy efficiency, automation, and sustainability.
The government has assured that the project will be implemented transparently and in phases, with minimal disruption to ongoing airport operations. Construction is expected to commence within the coming months, and authorities have promised strict adherence to timelines and budget control.
As Nigeria strives to become a regional aviation hub, the overhaul of Lagos Airport Terminal One represents a bold commitment to lifting the sector to international standards and fostering confidence among travelers, investors, and airline operators.
