Stepping into the recently remodelled Arrival Wing E at the Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport, the impression is immediate and profound. This is not just a transit space; it is a vibrant gateway that reflects Nigeria’s spirit of innovation and commitment to excellence. A year after its major remodelling in December 2023, the wing continues to impress with its seamless operation and preserved beauty.
“Most importantly, it benefits end-users—passengers—who now enjoy a world-class experience amidst the delightful ambience and swift service, setting the perfect welcoming tone as they step into Nigeria.”
As our 2024 ‘Detty December’ travellers disembarked their flights to Nigeria and entered Arrival Wing E, they would have been immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of vibrant celebration and cultural homage. The remodelling, evident in the thoughtful design and functionality, has not only enhanced the initial visitor experience but has also maintained its allure throughout 2024, showcasing Nigeria’s capacity to deliver world-class quality and unforgettable experiences.
The wing itself tells a story of Nigeria’s rich heritage through every meticulously crafted element. Art tablets vividly depict the ancient Nok Art, Ife Kingdom, Igbo-Ukwu Civilisation, and the Benin Kingdom, while the walls have been transformed into a vibrant tapestry of history. Half of the pillars echo “welcome” in 44 local dialects, with the other half wrapped in Nigerian fabrics to add a touch of national texture and pride. The clearance counters proudly bear the names of our diverse states, and for seamless passenger clearance, counter points were increased from 7 to 32, complete with all associated ICT infrastructure.
This wing E remodelling also tells a story of the untapped potential of collaborating for national infrastructure. The partnership model, involving the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and corporate giants Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) and NNPC Limited, was born from a shared vision: to transform the airport from a mere point of transit into a showcase of Nigeria’s potential and ambition. As the project implementation partner, The Offshore Lab leveraged its expertise in critical infrastructure to seamlessly integrate national history, art, engineering, and technology into this vital national and continental hub.
An example of this model’s catalytic effect and scalability is the more recent intervention by United Bank for Africa (UBA), which has adopted a similar approach to remodel Departure Wing E, inspired by the success at Arrival Wing E. This demonstrates the collaborative model’s effectiveness, where corporate sponsorship in exchange for strategic branding opportunities is leveraged to revitalise national assets.
For sponsors and corporate partners, the strategic branding opportunities at MMIA translate into unparalleled visibility in a venue that sees a constant flow of local and international traffic. For the government, it means elevating the standard of national facilities without solely bearing the financial burden. Most importantly, it benefits end-users—passengers—who now enjoy a world-class experience amidst the delightful ambience and swift service, setting the perfect welcoming tone as they step into Nigeria.
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A blueprint for national progress
The public-private sector partnership success at MMIA sets a pathway for redeveloping Nigeria’s other airports and critical infrastructure. It also emphasises the point that with the right partnerships and clear vision, improvements in national infrastructure are not only possible but also sustainable and beneficial across the board.
Emphasis on sustainability and maintenance
Sustainability is crucial to ensuring that infrastructure improvements deliver lasting impact. Without consistent upkeep, even the most advanced designs can deteriorate, diminishing their value and user experience. The success of MMIA’s Arrival Wing E underscores the importance of embedding maintenance into infrastructure planning from the outset. A key factor in this achievement has been the expertise of the project implementation partner, The Offshore Lab, whose quarterly maintenance throughout 2024 kept the facility in pristine condition. By integrating sustainability commitments into partnership agreements, stakeholders can safeguard both the aesthetic and functional integrity of national infrastructure, extending its lifespan and maximising its return on investment.
Beyond technical upkeep, sustainability must also embrace continuous adaptation to evolving needs and technologies. In a rapidly changing world, infrastructure must remain relevant through periodic upgrades and innovations. Enhancements to ICT systems or passenger flow mechanisms, for example, can significantly improve efficiency and user satisfaction over time. Proactive maintenance fosters trust among users and stakeholders, reinforcing a commitment to quality and reliability. By implementing regular audits and performance reviews, stakeholders can anticipate and address potential challenges early, ensuring sustained success. Ultimately, integrating sustainable practices transforms infrastructure into enduring symbols of national pride and global competitiveness.
The remodelling of MMIA’s Wing E is a narrative of progress, potential, and collaboration. It serves as a beacon for the importance of enhancing key national infrastructures to ensure Nigeria’s gates are always open, not just to welcome guests but to proudly showcase a nation that is ready to be at the forefront of global engagement and innovation. The call to action now is for other private sector players to engage with FAAN and other MDAs, investing in our national pride and participating in transformation that uplifts and redefines Nigeria’s global image.
About the author:
Emeka Obiwulu is the Founder and CEO of The Offshore Lab (TOL), an integrated service company focused on delivering projects and driving innovation, technology and capacity development. With over two decades of global experience in engineering and project delivery, he has led impactful projects across continents, emphasizing sustainable, community-driven solutions that prioritize local engagement and long-term growth.
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