The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has announced that major renovations will soon commence at Terminal One of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
Kuku made the disclosure during an interactive session at the FAAN Directorate of Commercial and Business Development Stakeholder Engagement, themed “Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Growth and Development.”
She noted that the renovation project, which is long overdue, had been delayed due to pending approvals and logistical challenges. However, she assured stakeholders that the process would soon begin and would be carried out in a structured and inclusive manner.
Dispelling circulating rumours, Kuku clarified that the terminal would not be demolished, as some reports had suggested. “Rumours will come, rumours will go, but I assure you, we are not reconstructing. What we are doing is renovating,” she stated emphatically.
The FAAN boss assured airport concessionaires, vendors, and stakeholders that they would be fully engaged throughout the renovation process. “Before the renovation begins, no matter your position—whether you operate a shop or hold a space—you will be duly notified and involved,” she said.
She revealed that the initial plan was to complete the renovations within one to two years, but given the complexity of the project, the work would be carried out in phases—beginning with the departure hall. To ensure uninterrupted operations, the arrival hall or a temporary departure area would be used during the construction.
In terms of infrastructure upgrades, Kuku disclosed that brand new airport equipment had already arrived in the country. “As we speak, all the new jet bridges required are already in the country, although installation has not yet commenced. Even brand-new conveyor belts are here,” she added.
Addressing concerns regarding the current operational limitations of the Avio bridges, she noted that one of the challenges is their inability to support multiple wide-body aircraft at the same time—an issue the new equipment and phased renovation aim to resolve.
Kuku also responded to concerns about vendors being asked to vacate the terminal, clarifying that the pause on lease renewals and new applications is a temporary measure to allow for better planning. “The last thing I want is to approve a renewal and collect fees, only to start renovations in that same area shortly after. That’s why we’re sensitising everyone.”
She commended the airport managers and staff for their commitment to maintaining seamless operations in the face of impending changes, and reassured all stakeholders that transparency, coordination, and communication would guide the entire renovation process.