The Federal Government of Nigeria has invested roughly $500 million in cash to modernise the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has revealed.

Keyamo, who spoke during the Aircraft Acquisition and Investment Summit in Lagos on Wednesday, highlighted the scale of the government’s commitment to developing Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.

“The scale of Nigeria’s aviation opportunity is perhaps best illustrated by what is now happening in Lagos, with roughly half a billion dollars invested by the Nigerian government in the modernisation of Lagos International Airport infrastructure.

“Nigeria is making a clear statement that the gateway serving one of Africa’s most important aviation markets must match the scale of its responsibility. We did not borrow the money; Mr President made the funds available in cash, and contractors have already moved to the site,” he stated.

The minister further provided an update on the project timeline and expectations.

“You will be very proud of what you see at Lagos airport in the next 22 months because that is the time allocated for delivery. Mr President [Bola Tinubu] understands the importance of aviation and its gateways. You can imagine how we are clearing the backlog and reforming our major airports.

“After Lagos, we are moving elsewhere. The President has also approved the commencement of the second runway in Abuja; you are hearing it here for the first time. Work had been halted due to volatility in the Niger, but construction will resume immediately, and the second runway in Abuja will be ready in no time,” he said.

The MMIA project, approved by the Federal Executive Council, is a ₦712 billion initiative designed to transform the ageing airport into a world-class aviation hub.

Unlike simple repairs, the project involves a comprehensive overhaul of facilities with a projected completion timeline of 22 months.

Lagos currently operates a single major international airport, MMIA, which comprises multiple terminals:

Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) has two main terminals: an International Terminal and a Domestic Terminal.

MMA1 is the government-run terminal handling international flights, while MMA2 is a privately-owned terminal primarily serving domestic flights.

A new International Terminal was recently commissioned to increase capacity and incorporate modern technology, including self-check-in counters, enhancing efficiency for travellers.

Future expansion plans include the Lekki International Airport, a proposed facility in the Lekki-Epe axis. The airport is intended to complement MMIA and serve the growing industrial and residential needs of the Lekki Free Trade Zone.

The urgency of the MMIA overhaul was reinforced by recent incidents. In late February 2026, a fire broke out at Terminal 1 of the old international wing, originating from the IT server room and spreading rapidly.

Fourteen people, including 12 air traffic controllers, were rescued, with six sustaining minor injuries. The blaze destroyed critical NAMA communication equipment, temporarily shutting down the airfield and diverting flights to Abuja.

Minister Keyamo subsequently ordered the terminal’s demolition, accelerating reconstruction plans. (Channels)

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