A former governorship candidate under the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has described the poor state of facilities at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, as a national embarrassment.

Speaking shortly before his departure to Singapore, Ajadi expressed dismay at what he termed the airport’s decaying infrastructure after domestic and international passengers were left visibly distressed by faulty air conditioning and poor ventilation at the terminals.

He called on the Federal Government and the Ministry of Aviation to take immediate action to restore the dignity of the facility.

“This airport is supposed to be a symbol of our national pride and a gateway into the heart of Nigeria.

“Yet what I experienced today is not only disappointing but shameful. The lack of air conditioning, no working fans, and poor treatment of passengers is unacceptable, especially for a country seeking foreign investment and global recognition,” he said.

Ajadi also drew attention to the non-functional travelator and raised concerns about the baggage carousel, which, according to him, was emitting a loud, unsettling noise. He questioned the safety and maintenance protocols in place at the airport, warning that such conditions could tarnish Nigeria’s global image.

He stressed the symbolic importance of international airports, noting that they serve as mirrors of a country’s infrastructure, governance, and values. “The experience visitors have at our international airport shapes their perception of the entire country—socially, economically, and politically. If this is what they meet at the entry point, what impression are we giving the world?” he asked.

Ajadi also criticised what he described as the unprofessional conduct of some airport personnel. He cited poor coordination, impolite interactions, and a lack of assistance for travellers, warning that such behaviour further damages the reputation of the airport.

He urged President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, to treat the matter as a national priority, calling for urgent renovation and reform of Nigeria’s international gateways.