Federal Government Approves ₦712 Billion for Total Overhaul of Murtala Muhammed International Airport
The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a ₦712 billion renovation project for the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, marking one of the most ambitious infrastructural upgrades in the history of Nigerian aviation.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, following the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held at the State House, Abuja. The meeting was presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Keyamo revealed that the renovation will involve a complete stripping of the existing airport terminal down to its structural frame. The rebuild will feature state-of-the-art mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems aimed at transforming the travel experience and aligning the airport with global aviation standards.
“This is a full-scale modernization,” Keyamo stated. “In addition to rebuilding the terminal, we’ll also construct new infrastructure such as an aircraft apron, access roads, bridges, and other supporting facilities.”
The project is expected to be completed within a 22-month period.
Nigerians have taken to social media to express mixed reactions. While some welcome the investment as long overdue, others remain skeptical about execution, quality, and accountability.
Here are a few notable reactions:
- @Aramani: “Once you enter Murtala Muhammed Airport, the first thing that welcomes you is the smell. Coming back to Nigeria is traumatic.”
- @Prince: “Go to Dubai and see what an airport looks like. All the airports in Nigeria are dustbins.”
- @Ubisinachi: “Even Ebute Metta Railway Station looks better than MMIA.”
- @Goke_Imisi: “Now that they’ve called them out, Festus Keyamo would be forced to do the needful within months.”
The renovation is part of broader efforts by the Tinubu administration to revamp critical national infrastructure and attract foreign investment through improved logistics and transportation facilities.
