Chairman Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria Board, Alhaji Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, has demanded urgent solutions to Nigeria’s mounting abandoned projects, warning that the trend threatens safety, security, and the nation’s international aviation reputation. He made the comments during the FAAN Board’s inspection of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
Ganduje said the board’s findings show that abandoned projects remain one of the biggest obstacles to airport efficiency. According to him, Nigeria cannot continue to overlook unfinished infrastructure in major aviation hubs. He noted that ongoing improvements risk being undermined by critical works left idle for years.
“We have seen a number of ongoing projects, but we have also seen abandoned projects,” he said. “Our attention has been drawn to several challenges we must address, especially those tied to safety, security and critical infrastructure.”
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for improvements in Lagos, Abuja, and Kano airports. However, he stressed that abandoned projects pose a threat to the progress achieved so far.
“We thank Mr. President for what has been done in two years, but we cannot ignore the delays. We must complete these abandoned projects and restore the confidence of airport users,” he added.
Ganduje stated that abandoned projects do not fall under one authority. Some originate from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development while others belong to FAAN. Each will undergo a detailed review.
“There are different types of abandoned projects,” he explained. “Some belong to the Ministry and some to FAAN. We must examine each project to understand the cause of abandonment. If it is funding, we will prioritise our budget. If it is litigation, we will conclude it. If it is technical, the experts will advise.”
He said abandoned projects affect terminal interiors, safety areas, drainage systems, airport roads, and expansion works.
According to him, the Lagos airport needs urgent attention because it directly shapes visitors’ impressions of the country.
Ganduje emphasised that infrastructure delays weaken operational efficiency. He said the Lagos airport must reflect Nigeria’s status as West Africa’s largest aviation hub.
“This is the face of the country,” he said. “When people arrive, they form opinions from the environment. After cutting the grass, ensure proper landscaping. Lighting is critical to safety. We cannot afford problems in that area.”
He warned that incomplete airfield lighting or delayed safety upgrades can impact both domestic and international flight operations.
Ganduje called for coordinated operations between Immigration, Customs, NDLEA, DSS, Police, Military, and private operators. He insisted that corruption at passenger touchpoints must end.
“We must have zero tolerance for corruption so passengers do not develop a bad impression of our country,” he stated.
He confirmed that contractors have mobilised for the Kano second runway project. The FAAN Board will inspect airports across all geopolitical zones. He also called for improved African air connectivity to reduce ticket costs and deepen trade.
