MMIA has operated for 48 years without major improvement – Kuku 

Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)  has the Murtala Mohammed Terminal One has been operational for over 48 years, with no major improvement or comprehensive rehabilitation in that time.

Kuku said the new upgrade is not only necessary but urgent to meet the demands of modern air travel.

“The comfort and seamless experience of every passenger remains our utmost priority throughout this essential upgrade, Kuku said.

“We are committed to delivering a world-class gateway that Nigeria will be proud of, and we have implemented robust temporary arrangements to ensure minimal disruption. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has prioritised this project, recognising that Lagos is the nation’s premier gateway. This rehabilitation is being done for all Nigerians, to cater to the significant traffic and build the infrastructure our country deserves.”

Kuku gave the assurances during a comprehensive inspection tour of the newly constructed temporary departure terminal, which is expected to serve passengers upon the closure of Terminal

She was accompanied by key project engineers and consultants overseeing the modernisation programme.

The MD/CE provided details on the project’s phased approach: “We have promised Nigerians a new terminal, and we are meticulously working towards it. The project encompasses two major phases: the complete remodelling and rehabilitation of Terminal One, including all mechanical, engineering, plumbing, and civil works; and the significant extension of Terminal 2, which will feature an expanded finger and apron.”

During the inspection, Kuku expressed satisfaction with the progress.

“The 8,000-square-meter temporary departure terminal is nearing completion and will be operational very soon,” she said. “This facility, which is over 90% complete, will initially serve approximately five to six airlines for departures only. It is designed to handle up to 1,500 passengers at peak periods and includes full check-in, security screening, and boarding services through three gates.”

She confirmed that ancillary temporary infrastructure is also in place, including a dedicated car park and a temporary arrival and pickup area. The temporary terminal has been designed with accessibility as a key focus, catering to the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, the elderly, and children.

The MMIA rehabilitation and expansion project is a critical, phased modernisation initiative aimed at transforming Nigeria’s busiest international airport.

The core objective is to comprehensively upgrade the ageing infrastructure (originally built in 1979) to meet current global standards, significantly enhance the passenger experience, and improve operational efficiency and safety.

Executed by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the project is strategically phased to prevent a total shutdown of airport operations.