On a warm Thursday morning in Abuja, the Federal Executive Council, led by President Bola Tinubu, reached a transformative decision: it approved ₦987 billion to revamp aviation infrastructure across Nigeria.
This bold move marked one of the most ambitious steps yet under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Immediately after the meeting, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, addressed newsmen.
He outlined what he described as a “massive push” to modernise the nation’s airports—clearly reflecting the administration’s firm commitment to the aviation sector.
“Today,” he said, “aviation took centre stage.
We truly appreciate the President’s focus.
This marks a turning point for the industry.”
Lagos Terminal Overhaul
At the core of the initiative, the government will completely overhaul International Terminal One at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
Engineers will strip the terminal down to its structural frame and rebuild it to meet international standards.
They will replace all mechanical and electrical systems with modern installations.
To carry out the work, the government awarded the contract to CCECC, the same firm that previously constructed Terminal Two.
Furthermore, the company will expand Terminal Two by adding a new apron, access roads, bridges, and related infrastructure.
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Altogether, the Lagos airport project will cost ₦712.26 billion.
Officials have set a 22-month deadline for its completion.
Runway, Lighting, Security
Meanwhile, the government has also committed to significant upgrades at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport.
It will rehabilitate both runways and taxiways and install upgraded airfield ground lighting to Category 2 (CAT 2) standards.
“This ₦46.39 billion investment,” Keyamo stated, “will enhance flight safety—especially during harmattan—by allowing aircraft to land even in low-visibility conditions.”
He added that the project will conclude within 24 weeks.
In addition to infrastructure, the government has prioritised airport security.
It will construct a 14.6km perimeter fence around Lagos airport, complete with CCTV, solar floodlights, intrusion detection systems, and patrol roads.
Officials expect the ₦50 billion security upgrade to take 24 months.
Nationwide Modernisation Push
Next, Port Harcourt International Airport will undergo its own modernisation.
Engineers will rehabilitate its runway and taxiway while installing upgraded CAT 2 lighting.
This ₦42.14 billion project aims to improve safety and maintain flight schedules during adverse weather.
Finally, the Federal Executive Council approved the full business case for a 30-year concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.
This move signals the government’s plan to engage private sector partners in the long-term management and development of the airport.
With these sweeping reforms, the Tinubu administration has launched a clear signal: it intends to modernise Nigeria’s aviation sector from the ground up—efficiently, securely, and sustainably.
