The federal government’s approval of N712b for the renovation of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) terminal one has revived debates on the propriety of concessioning major airports nationwide.
Whereas many in the industry insist that the critical facilities are better run by private investors, the aviation workers’ unions are resolute that the government should quash earlier plans to concession the airports, especially considering the current administration’s firm commitment to maintenance.
Recall that the Federal Executive Council (FEC), in 2016, approved the concession of the four major airports in a move to have them run efficiently and profitably.
The immediate past Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, had made moves to concession four major airports, and some consortia had even won the bid to manage them. However, the move was scuttled by aviation unions, who argued that many jobs would be lost.
Sirika’s successor, Festus Keyamo, also reintroduced plans to concession five international airports countrywide.
The airports include Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja; Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos; Port Harcourt International Airport; Aminu Kano International Airport; and Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu.
But in a twist to the tail, the FEC recently awarded N712 billion for the renovation of the MMIA, suggestive of the government becoming the main investor rather than looking for one.
Apparently impressed by the bold venture, the aviation unions said it was high time the government had fully jettisoned the concession plans or start afresh.
Speaking at the Freedom Square headquarters of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Lagos, the union leaders described the concession exercise as a deceit.
President of the National Association of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Ben Nnabue, said if at all the government insists on concession, there should be a restart of the whole process and allow for bids by interested organisations in a transparent manner.
He said: “They should start afresh, so that all Nigerians who want to participate in the ownership of the airport will participate. And all the airports have to come together, weigh them, know their value.”
Nnabue added that the unions are not aware of the process being used for the concession plans.
He noted that labour demands are not being attended to, while the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, has already announced that he has the approval of FEC to concession the Enugu airport.
“So, we just want the world to know that before any concession can take effect, that the labour issues must be discussed and handled. The airport belongs to Nigerians. It’s a federal government structure or institution. So, you cannot, at midnight, decide on who to give the airport to without declaring it open to all Nigerians,” Nnabue said.
President General of the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), Alale Adedayo, also condemned the concession approach being executed by the minister
Adedayo said: “Let there be national dailies advertisement on concession plan and invitation for a good six months so that anybody that wants to bid will come, sit around the table with the staff and consider the staff welfare, the labour-related matters.”
The Managing Director of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, earlier said that the MMIA facility would undergo upgrades across multiple layers.
The upcoming developments include the rehabilitation and expansion of terminal 1 (T1). As the busiest terminal nationwide, T1 will undergo extensive rehabilitation. This includes upgrading the exterior façade, interior finishes, plumbing systems, and mechanical and electrical installations to meet international standards.
The expansion of Terminal 2 (T2). T2 will be expanded to accommodate more wide-body aircraft. This includes the extension of both the finger (boarding bridge area) and apron to enhance aircraft handling capacity. And existing hangars in the expansion zone will be relocated to allow for seamless execution of this project.
New road network. A modern, well-organised, and efficient road network will be developed to improve access to the airport, easing congestion and enhancing the overall travelling experience.
Connection building and skywalk: A skywalk will be constructed to integrate the car park building with T2, and a connection building will be established to link T1 and T2. These infrastructures will transform the previously independent terminal buildings into a unified complex, improving passenger flow and airport management.
Temporary departure hall. During the rehabilitation phase, a temporary departure hall will be established. It will be well-organised, clean, and comfortable to ensure convenience for all travellers.
Redesigned central square landscape: The landscape in the central square, located in front of the terminal buildings, will be completely redesigned to create a welcoming atmosphere for arriving passengers, offering a first impression that reflects the pride and spirit of our nation.
Kuku said: “We are reimagining the future of the MMIA, not just rebuilding a terminal, but elevating Nigeria’s aviation experience to global standards. The new T1 will offer faster check-in, smarter security, brighter lounges, and better shopping—all built for you.
“This project represents a future-focused infrastructure upgrade and a solemn commitment to every traveller passing through this national gateway. Your understanding and support today are helping us build the MMIA of tomorrow—more vibrant, convenient, and world-class—truly the pride of the nation.
“We are undertaking this project so that every departure and return becomes a moment to look forward to. The upgraded terminal will elevate MMIA to an international platform, establishing it as a leading aviation hub in West Africa—becoming a source of national pride and meeting the highest global standards,” Kuku said.
