FG to Demolish Crumbling Lagos Airport Terminal for N14bn Upgrade

FG Begins Bold Demolition of 46-Year-Old MMIA Terminal

FG has launched a bold move to demolish and rebuild the old terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, ending nearly five decades of patchwork fixes and pressure on outdated facilities.

The decision marks a turning point in Nigeria’s aviation journey. After 46 years of service, the terminal — first built to serve just 200,000 passengers — now strains under the weight of up to 10 million users each year.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, made the announcement through his official X handle. He said the rebuild was overdue and long delayed by previous administrations.

He shared a staggering fact: “When the MMIA was built in 1977, it was designed to handle about 200,000 passengers annually. Today, it processes over 3 million passengers a year — and about 15 million nationwide.”

Keyamo stressed that the pressure has nearly collapsed the terminal’s infrastructure. But now, with new plans, the rebuilt terminal will be able to handle up to 20 million passengers every year.

He credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for pushing forward with the plan. “Thanks to President Tinubu, we are set to embark on a complete reconstruction of the old terminal in Lagos to meet modern standards,” he added.

The plan is not just talk. The Federal Government has already entered an agreement with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) to manage the project.

An insider confirmed to THEWILL that funds for the rebuild are in place and that work is set to begin soon. For years, the aging terminal struggled with overcrowding, flight delays, and breakdowns. The proposed project aims to fix that permanently.

Previous governments had announced similar plans. But nothing changed. Now, with the new international terminal easing pressure on the old one, insiders say the timing is right.

The estimated cost is over N14 billion. But for many air travelers and industry workers, it’s a small price to pay for safety, comfort, and better service.

Keyamo’s push for infrastructure reform has gained attention. Since taking office, he has focused on five key goals, one of which is building and upgrading aviation infrastructure across the country.

Experts have taken note. Group Captain John Ojikutu (retd.), a security expert and CEO of Centurion Security and Safety Consult, said Nigeria should not put all its airport operations in one place.

He questioned why other parts of the airport complex haven’t seen similar attention. “What happened to the plan to move West Coast regional traffic to MM2?” he asked. “Why not relocate the General Aviation Terminal and cargo areas to the other side of the runways?”

Ojikutu also emphasized that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) must review and approve any final plans before demolition begins. He warned that poor planning could create new security problems.

Still, many stakeholders support the plan. They urge the FG to work with top aviation architects and engineers. They want a plan that includes clear timelines, proper funding, and space for future expansion.

The MMIA terminal has seen multiple upgrades over the years. In 2008, the opening of Terminal M improved capacity and passenger comfort. Since then, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has expanded Terminal 1, added parking structures, and modernized aircraft taxiways and runways.

FAAN also introduced digital systems for smoother operations. These upgrades have helped MMIA grow into Nigeria’s most important aviation hub. It connects the country to major global cities and boosts trade, tourism, and cultural ties.

With Terminal 2 already operating with modern technology, many believe the planned rebuild will finally give Nigeria an airport that can match others around the world.

MMIA’s importance stretches beyond transportation. It stands as a proud symbol of Nigeria’s aviation ambition. Built in 1974 and opened in 1979, the terminal became the face of the country’s effort to modernize air travel.

Now, the Federal Government’s fresh push for a complete overhaul under Keyamo’s leadership is being watched closely. The outcome may define the future of Nigeria’s aviation sector — and show whether the country is ready to compete globally.

For travelers, industry staff, and international partners, this project represents hope. Hope that Nigeria can offer a world-class airport experience that matches the pride and potential of its people.