The ambitious renovation, financed through the presidential Renewed Hope Infrastructural Development Fund, aims to elevate the airport’s infrastructure, improve passenger experience, and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a key aviation hub in Africa.
The announcement of the N712 billion allocation initially drew public criticism, with some describing the amount as excessive. Nevertheless, work on the airport is now underway, turning the entire aerodrome into a major construction zone.
During the quarterly Q1 breakfast meeting on Thursday, participants stressed the need for strategic planning, innovation, and private sector participation to ensure the project delivers long-term value. They emphasized that the airport upgrade should go beyond cosmetic enhancements, urging policymakers to focus on efficiency, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
“The MMIA refurbishment presents an opportunity not just to modernize facilities but to reposition Lagos as a regional aviation hub capable of driving connectivity, tourism, and investment,” said Rtd. Air Commodore Ademola Onitiju, President of ART. He described the dialogue as a platform for actionable ideas, intended to complement government reforms and generate strategies that could transform the sector.
Onitiju highlighted ART’s expectations for the project, envisioning a modern airport capable of handling 30 million passengers annually and connecting over 50 airlines to more than 100 destinations worldwide. He also called for policies to attract investment, including public-private partnerships, open skies agreements, and sustainable aviation initiatives.
“We urge stakeholders to consider green aviation, sustainable fuels, and eco-friendly airport designs. Private sector investment, supported by government frameworks, is essential if we are to achieve world-class standards,” Onitiju said.
Adding to the discussion, Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), outlined a structured strategy for the country’s aviation development. She described Nigeria’s dual-hub approach, anchored on MMIA in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, as central to boosting passenger and cargo traffic across the region.
Kuku explained that the ongoing upgrades—including terminal expansions, improved runway lighting, advanced air traffic systems, and enhanced cargo facilities—are designed to increase efficiency, safety, and passenger capacity while aligning with global aviation standards.
“Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment in its aviation journey. With a large population, strategic geographic location, and growing travel demand, our nation is uniquely positioned to emerge as a leading aviation hub on the continent,” she said. “Our dual-hub strategy ensures that Lagos and Abuja airports collectively form the backbone of Nigeria’s regional connectivity ambitions, supported by investments in safety, regulatory compliance, and international best practices.”
The dialogue concluded with a shared vision of a modernized MMIA that not only meets current travel demands but also serves as a catalyst for economic growth, foreign investment, and global competitiveness in the aviation sector.