The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has assured passengers of a seamless travel experience at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, despite major ongoing rehabilitation works.
The assurance came during an inspection of a new temporary departure terminal constructed to facilitate operations during the renovation.
Okay News reports that the 8,000-square-metre temporary facility is over 90 per cent complete and will soon become operational ahead of the planned closure of the main Terminal One for comprehensive upgrades. The temporary hall is designed to initially serve five to six airlines and handle up to 1,500 passengers during peak periods.
Facilities At The Temporary Terminal
During the inspection, the FAAN boss detailed the capabilities of the interim structure. She confirmed that the terminal will provide full services, including check-in counters, security screening points, and boarding gates, to ensure minimal disruption to flight schedules and passenger processing. This move is part of a phased rehabilitation and expansion project aimed at modernizing the country’s premier international gateway.
The overarching goal of the project is to improve safety standards, operational efficiency, and overall passenger comfort at the airport. Mrs. Kuku emphasized that these upgrades are critical to boosting Nigeria’s aviation profile and meeting international standards for a major hub in West Africa.
Phased Approach To Major Renovation
The strategy involves using the temporary terminal to accommodate departing passengers while the main terminal building undergoes significant structural and aesthetic improvements. This phased approach is intended to prevent a total shutdown of the airport, which is a critical node for international travel and commerce in Nigeria.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria is the government agency responsible for managing all of the nation’s commercial airports. The renovation of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, a key infrastructure asset, is seen as a vital step in addressing long-standing concerns about airport facilities and enhancing Nigeria’s connectivity and reputation in global aviation.