President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a ₦712.3 billion upgrade of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, signaling a major leap toward transforming Nigeria’s busiest airport into a world class aviation hub. The Federal Executive Council gave approval for the project following a presentation by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
The project involves a complete demolition and reconstruction of Terminal One, which was originally built in 1979. The reconstruction will include the replacement of all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. The upgrade also features the expansion of Terminal Two, the construction of new access roads and bridges, a skywalk linking both terminals and the expansion of aircraft apron areas.
In addition, the Federal Government has approved a separate ₦49.9 billion for the construction of a 14.6 kilometre perimeter security system. This will include fencing, solar powered floodlights, CCTV surveillance, intrusion detection technology and a central command and control center to enhance security at the airport.
The entire upgrade is expected to be completed within 22 months. Minister Keyamo emphasized that the funding will come entirely from the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, which is financed through savings from fuel subsidy removal. He assured that no foreign loans will be used for the project.
According to the Minister, the project is a critical intervention to modernize the airport which currently handles over 60 percent of Nigeria’s air traffic. He described the move as a permanent and forward looking solution to long standing infrastructure deficiencies at MMIA.
Presidential aide Tope Ajayi defended the ₦712.3 billion cost by comparing it to the ongoing 19 billion dollar renovation of JFK International Airport in New York. He noted that the MMIA project, which is valued at around 500 million dollars, is modest by global standards and justified based on the volume of passengers passing through the airport annually.
Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Olubunmi Kuku, said the redevelopment will significantly improve passenger experience. She highlighted plans for improved commercial spaces, lounges, access points and operational efficiency in line with global aviation benchmarks.
However, the project has drawn criticism from some quarters. The African Democratic Congress described the amount as excessive and called on the National Assembly to halt the plan. Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria demanded a public audit and greater transparency. Aviation experts have also expressed concern over the exclusion of the project from the 2025 national budget and called for detailed procurement disclosures.
Despite these concerns, the Tinubu administration maintains that the airport upgrade is a strategic priority under its Renewed Hope agenda. Officials say the initiative will not only improve infrastructure but also boost investor confidence and enhance Nigeria’s position as a leading aviation hub in West Africa.
