Following approval to commence regional operations after the resolution of the concession dispute between MMA2 and the Federal Government, Dr. Wale Babalakin, SAN, has stressed the need for strict regulatory oversight. The Chairman of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) urged his team to keep the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) fully involved throughout the process. He also emphasised compliance with all applicable safety, regulatory and operational requirements before commencement.
Dr. Babalakin gave the directive during an inspection of Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), Lagos, as preparations intensify for regional flight operations. The visit followed the signing of a settlement agreement concerning the MMA2 concession, marking a significant milestone in resolving the long-running dispute. However, the transition to regional services requires the completion of preparatory works and the necessary regulatory clearances.
Regional Operations at MMA2 Require NCAA Oversight
During the inspection, Dr. Babalakin visited the regional arrivals area, apron extension and staff and concessionaire access gate. The visit focused on infrastructure readiness and progress towards accommodating regional passengers and aircraft operations.
According to a statement signed by BASL Head of Corporate Communications, Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, the Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Aeronautical and Cargo Services, Mr. Remi Jibodu, led the inspection team. He briefed the Chairman on ongoing works and preparations for the planned commencement.
Dr. Babalakin congratulated the team on the progress recorded and commended its efforts towards meeting the stipulated timeline. Nevertheless, he urged the team to sustain the momentum and complete all outstanding preparations before operations begin.
The Chairman also called for close coordination with government agencies and regulatory authorities. He specifically stressed that the NCAA must remain fully engaged as the relevant inspections, assessments and approvals progress.
Babalakin Stresses Safety and Operational Readiness
Beyond infrastructure delivery, Dr. Babalakin directed the team to prioritise facility finishing, safety standards and operational readiness. He also emphasised effective stakeholder coordination to ensure that preparations meet the applicable requirements.
The directive places regulatory engagement at the centre of MMA2’s preparations for regional operations. Therefore, the completion of physical works must go hand in hand with the required safety checks and approvals.
Meanwhile, BASL is also preparing for increased passenger traffic during the year-end travel season. The company says it is pursuing both regional readiness and the capacity to manage seasonal demand without compromising service standards.
BASL Balances Regional Flights with Year-End Demand
The Acting Chief Executive Officer of BASL, Mrs. Idunnu Oyebolu, said the company was preparing its facilities, personnel and processes for the anticipated developments.
“As we put the necessary infrastructure and operational arrangements in place for regional operations, we are equally preparing for the anticipated increase in passenger traffic during the year-end season. Our priority is to ensure that our facilities, personnel and processes are adequately prepared to deliver seamless, safe and efficient passenger experience during this period. We are focused on maintaining service standards while positioning MMA2 to accommodate these developments,” she said.
Similarly, Mr. Jibodu reaffirmed the team’s commitment to completing outstanding work within the stipulated timeline. He said the company would intensify efforts across workstreams, strengthen coordination with regulatory authorities and pursue the required inspections and approvals.
“We are committed to meeting the stipulated timeline for the commencement of regional operations. Following the Chairman’s inspection and guidance, we will intensify efforts across all workstreams, strengthen coordination with the relevant agencies and regulatory authorities, and ensure that all required inspections and approvals are completed ahead of commencement. Our priority is to deliver on schedule while ensuring that the facilities meet the necessary safety, regulatory and operational requirements,” he said.
MMA2 Prepares for Expanded Regional Connectivity
The ongoing works are intended to support passenger processing and aircraft operations for regional services. Once operational, the development could expand travel options and strengthen MMA2’s contribution to regional connectivity.
However, the timing of commencement remains tied to completing the necessary preparations and satisfying applicable regulatory requirements. BASL says it remains committed to developing MMA2 and delivering safe, efficient and customer-focused airport services under its promise of being “More than a terminal.”
