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The Federal Government has approved a whopping ₦712.26 billion for the complete reconstruction of Terminal One at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. This project marks the first full-scale renovation of the terminal since it was built in 1979.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, explained that the terminal is currently in a state of disrepair, with leaking roofs, faulty equipment, and outdated facilities. He warned that if nothing is done, major international airlines may stop operating in Lagos due to safety and insurance concerns.
The new project will involve demolishing and rebuilding Terminal One from scratch. Terminal Two will also be expanded, and the airport apron will be enlarged to accommodate more and larger aircraft. Additionally, a 14.6-kilometre perimeter fence with CCTV, solar lights, and intrusion detection systems will be constructed. The runway lighting will also be upgraded to modern CAT-2 LED standards.
Funding for the project will come from the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, created from savings generated by the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira. The government has stressed that no loans or external borrowing will be used.
While the government insists the project is essential to improve Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and boost economic growth, the move has drawn criticism. Many Nigerians argue that spending such a large sum on an airport is insensitive, especially at a time when many citizens are struggling with rising food prices, poor healthcare, and insecurity.
Nonetheless, authorities say the reconstruction is necessary to turn Lagos into a competitive air travel hub in West Africa. The project is expected to take about 22 to 30 months to complete.
Whether this development will benefit ordinary Nigerians remains a topic of national debate.
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