Nigeria Approves $479 Million Overhaul of Lagos Airport Terminal in Ambitious Aviation Push
Nigeria’s federal government has approved a sweeping $479 million (₦712.26 billion) project to fully rehabilitate Terminal One at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos—marking one of the largest single investments in the country’s aviation sector to date.
The announcement followed a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House in Abuja.
A Flagship Move in a $605 Million Aviation Upgrade
The overhaul of Terminal One is the centerpiece of a broader $605 million (₦900 billion) strategy aimed at modernizing Nigeria’s aging aviation infrastructure nationwide. The project has been awarded to the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), and it includes completely dismantling the existing terminal, stripping it down to its structural shell before rebuilding with new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
“This is not just a facelift—it’s a full teardown and rebuild,” said Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. “We’re building for the future, not patching the past.”
Expanding Terminal Two and Total Investment in Lagos
In addition to the Terminal One project, the federal council also approved the expansion of Terminal Two, which will include a new aircraft apron, access roads, bridges, and other supporting infrastructure.
With both terminals included, the total investment in Lagos airport upgrades now stands at $479 million (₦712.26 billion)—a figure that underscores the administration’s commitment to repositioning Lagos as a major aviation hub for West Africa.
Security Boost: $33.5 Million High-Tech Perimeter Project
In a separate but related development, the government also approved a $33.5 million (₦49.9 billion) security project to construct a 14.6-kilometer steel perimeter fence around Lagos airport.
The barrier will feature:
- Intrusion detection systems
- CCTV surveillance
- Solar-powered floodlighting
- A patrol road
- And a high-tech command center for real-time monitoring
“Any movement near the fence will trigger instant alerts,” Keyamo said. “This is about securing our aviation assets against evolving threats.”
Murtala Muhammed International Airport is Nigeria’s busiest air gateway and one of the most trafficked in Africa. But for years, its infrastructure has been plagued by outdated systems, crowding, and security gaps. These newly approved investments are seen as a turning point for Nigeria’s aviation sector.
International aviation analysts note that the scale and scope of this project could significantly enhance Nigeria’s role in regional and intercontinental travel—especially as neighboring countries compete to become logistical and commercial air traffic hubs.
Construction on Terminal One is expected to begin soon, though no specific timeline was announced. The upgrades, once completed, are projected to increase operational efficiency, improve passenger experience, and meet global aviation standards for safety and security.
As global airlines expand their footprint in Africa, Nigeria is signaling it doesn’t intend to be left behind. With this bold investment, Lagos airport could soon become one of the continent’s most modern and strategically important transit points.
