Nigeria’s Aviation Revolution: Lagos Airport’s Leap into Modernity Airport

Nigeria’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, a WWII-era structure renamed in 1976 after former leader Murtala Muhammed, has been the nation’s key aviation hub. But years of intense traffic have worn it down, causing overcrowding and outdated systems. To counter this, the government launched a transformative renovation to elevate it to global standards.

Today, August 1, 2025, marks the approval of a N712 billion project by the Federal Executive Council for Terminal One. Handed to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the 22-month revamp will gut and rebuild the terminal’s core, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing upgrades. This will surge capacity from 3 million to 20 million passengers yearly, easing congestion and adding modern features.

Under President Bola Tinubu’s N920 billion Renewed Hope Fund, the plan extends to a N49.9 billion high-tech perimeter fence, apron and runway expansions, plus N2.5 billion for boarding bridges. Early wins include Delta Air Lines’ new premium lounge from July 2025.

These changes will drive economic growth, tourism, and better connectivity, making MMIA a competitive international player.