MMIA ₦712bn Terminal Renovation: What Lies Ahead

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The actual cost of the total aviation industry upgrade costs ₦919,112,715,978.52 but with Lagos, the country’s most viable airport accounting 70% of revenues generated, getting ₦712.2 billion for its upgrade.

BY ANTHONY OMOH

Following the Federal Executive Council’s nod greenlighting ₦712.2 billion investment into comprehensive airport renovations, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has set its plan in place to make the 22-month renovation project a reality as soon as possible.

All the tinkering has been done and with this approval, the actual MMIA terminal renovation plan can actually begin.

Managing Director FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, in strong collaboration with Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has led this push, both working tirelessly to secure the necessary federal support and ensure the ambitious upgrade gets off the ground successfully.

The actual cost of the total aviation industry upgrade costs ₦919,112,715,978.52 but with Lagos, the country’s most viable airport accounting 70% of revenues generated, getting ₦712.2 billion for its upgrade.

Scope of MMIA terminal Renovation 

According to the scope of the MMIA terminal renovation, a large portion of the approved funds will go into rehabilitating and expanding Terminal 1, Nigeria’s busiest international terminal. This involves upgrading the terminal’s façade, plumbing, mechanical systems, electrical fittings, and interior finishings to meet global aviation standards.

FAAN will also extend Terminal 2 to accommodate wide-body aircraft more efficiently, improving apron operations and increasing boarding bridge capacity. To make room for these expansions, hangars located in the affected zones will be temporarily relocated during the construction phase.

Additionally, a new, modern road network will be developed to ease congestion and improve traffic access across the airport complex. The roads will be part of a larger effort to ensure seamless connectivity between terminal buildings, car parks, and other airport facilities.

A major innovation of the MMIA terminal renovation is the construction of a Skywalk to link the multi-level car park to Terminal 2.
Another connection building will unify Terminals 1 and 2, transforming the previously separate units into one cohesive terminal structure.

These physical integrations are expected to enhance passenger flow, increase efficiency, and modernize airport management.

Sustaining operations during construction

To maintain convenience for travellers, FAAN will build a temporary departure hall during the renovation period. This temporary hall will be clean, organised, and climate-controlled to ensure continued comfort for all departing passengers.

Meanwhile, the central square landscape in front of the terminals will be redesigned to create a welcoming atmosphere for arrivals.

To minimise disruption, FAAN has announced the temporary constructed departure hall covering approximately 8,000 square metres, will be fully equipped with essential passenger services, including check-in counters, security screening units, ticketing desks, and spacious waiting areas.

It has been designed to accommodate up to 1,500 passengers during peak hours and will feature three boarding gates to guarantee smooth and timely departures.

The temporary hall will also cater to a wide range of passenger needs by offering VIP lounges, food and retail outlets, emergency medical assistance, and accessible amenities for passengers with reduced mobility. This ensures that comfort and convenience are maintained throughout the MMIA terminal renovation period, regardless of passenger category.

While departures will be handled at the new temporary facility, all arrivals will continue to be processed at Terminal 2. This arrangement is expected to maintain a seamless flow of operations and minimise inconvenience to travellers. I

n addition, temporary access roads and clear signage will be deployed to direct passengers effectively, ensuring they can navigate the changes without confusion during Terminal 1’s closure.

According to FAAN MD Olubunmi Kuku, the MMIA terminal renovation plan is not just about rebuilding infrastructure—it is about reimagining Nigeria’s aviation story. “We are building the MMIA of tomorrow,” she said. “A global-standard gateway that elevates every journey and projects national pride.”

Breakdown of project costs

The ₦712.2 billion allocated for the MMIA transformation represents the lion’s share of FAAN’s wider national aviation upgrade budget. Spelled out, that is seven hundred and twelve billion, two hundred and fifty-eight million, five hundred and sixty-five thousand, four hundred and eighty-two naira and eighteen kobo.

The MMIA terminal renovation is part of a broader ₦919.1 billion package covering runway rehabilitation, apron conversion, and security enhancements across key airports. While Lagos receives the bulk of the upgrade funding, other key airports are also set for critical improvements.

Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano will see a full runway and lighting upgrade. Port Harcourt’s runway will also be rehabilitated and modernized. Additionally, major security infrastructure and apron enhancements are planned for both Lagos and other strategic terminals nationwide.

Here is a full breakdown of the projects and their respective costs:

MMIA Terminal Renovation Plan – Project Cost Breakdown

Raising Nigeria’s aviation profile

Once the MMIA terminal renovation is complete, it will offer faster check-in, improved security, bright lounges, and expanded shopping zones. The goal is to reposition Lagos as a regional aviation hub and align Nigeria’s infrastructure with global benchmarks.

The MMIA terminal renovation plan will also boost operational efficiency, making every journey a memorable experience for travellers. FAAN is urging passengers, staff, and stakeholders to embrace the transition, as it builds a world-class airport Nigerians can proudly call their own.

“We are not just upgrading,” said Kuku. “We are shaping a future-ready aviation experience worthy of our status in West Africa.”

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