FAAN’s Smart Overhaul of MMIA’s D-Wing Terminal

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BY ANTHONY OMOH

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has completed the much-anticipated D-Wing terminal transformation at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos. The project, which mirrors the earlier E-Wing renovation completed in December 2024, upgrades the aging D-Wing into a sleek, contactless processing hub that now meets global facilitation standards.

The E-Wing remodel, executed in collaboration with United Bank for Africa (UBA), set a high benchmark in design and operational efficiency. That same collaboration appears to have extended into the D-Wing project, continuing a fruitful public-private engagement.

Once marked by congestion and outdated infrastructure, the D-Wing now offers streamlined processing, improved aesthetics, and smart technology integration. It also connects directly with the new international terminal, allowing seamless transitions between wings.

According to FAAN, the redesign adheres to ICAO’s standard passenger flow model, which recommends that a traveler should move from terminal entry to departure gate—or from disembarkation to exit—in under 45 minutes.

“This D-Wing terminal transformation was executed under our Passenger Flow Process initiative,” explained Director, Airport Operations, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria. “It is part of the IFU project designed to improve passenger throughput. With the new system, passengers no longer face long queues or delays. The entire experience is smoother, cleaner, and significantly faster.”

Key Features Integrated for Speed and Comfort

The remodeled terminal includes:

• Electronic gates (e-gates) for secure, fast movement.
• Smart passport readers that eliminate paper-based immigration forms.
• Automated crew screening to replace manual entries.
• High-capacity scanners that reduce reliance on physical baggage checks.

  

  

  

These improvements are part of FAAN’s strategy to introduce contactless facilitation. The result is a more hygienic, secure, and efficient passenger processing experience.

“Previously, the lines were endless and delays routine,” said a senior concessionaire operating within the terminal. “Now, average facilitation time is down to 30 minutes. That’s a major change.”

The transformation isn’t only functional—it’s also visual. Soft lighting, intuitive layouts, natural finishes, and digital signage create a calming, world-class ambiance that eases passenger stress.

“This terminal has truly evolved,” the concessionaire added. “From the architecture to the interiors, it now feels like an international-grade facility.”

Reduced Processing Times and Streamlined Screening

Before the upgrades, travelers were told to arrive two or even three hours before international departures. This was due to tedious manual processing, long screening queues, and redundant form-filling. However, the new system changes everything.

“We’ve eliminated the immigration forms,” the FAAN source noted. “Passengers now place their passport on the scanner and proceed. No writing, no hassle.”

These digital enhancements speed up document validation and reduce physical touchpoints. Passengers can now complete pre-boarding procedures within 45 minutes—often less.

Moreover, screening has been automated and security searches have been reduced, thanks to improved scanners and streamlined screening protocols.

Smarter Arrivals, Quicker Exits

For inbound passengers, the benefits are equally significant. Electronic gates assist immigration officers in screening arrivals quickly. Automated identification for flight crew and VIPs also ensures there’s no logbook or unnecessary delay.

“Manual crew logs and handwritten forms are gone,” the concessionaire explained. “Today, arriving passengers and crew exit the terminal faster and with less confusion.”

Physical searches, another common cause of delay, have been significantly reduced. Scanners now pick up most irregularities, and the need for hand-checking has diminished.

Leadership and Broader Transformation

The D-Wing upgrade is part of a broader transformation strategy championed by Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku. Her administration has focused on three pillars: digitization, passenger comfort, and operational excellence.

“Everywhere you turn, there’s a visible improvement,” noted the FAAN source. “This leadership understands that infrastructure must serve both form and function.”

FAAN’s ongoing modernization efforts also include recent upgrades at E-Wing and Terminal 2. The networked design now allows airlines to distribute check-in and boarding more flexibly, which reduces congestion and improves passenger experience.

Looking Ahead: Model for the Future

The success of the D-Wing terminal transformation has set a new benchmark for Nigerian airport terminals. Stakeholders across the aviation sector have commended FAAN for delivering a functional and aesthetically advanced facility.

“It’s not just about steel and tiles,” the concessionaire stressed. “It’s about improving how passengers move, feel, and interact with the space. FAAN got it right.”

Indeed, with the sustained backing of partners like UBA and strategic leadership at the helm, FAAN appears poised to lead further airport revamps nationwide.

“We’re done playing catch-up,” the FAAN official affirmed. “This terminal now reflects the 21st-century standard, and passengers are noticing the difference.”