The Federal Government has invested about $500 million to modernise the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, as part of efforts to reposition Nigeria’s aviation sector, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has disclosed.
Speaking on Wednesday at an aviation summit in Lagos, the minister said the scale of investment underscores the government’s determination to transform the country’s busiest airport into a world-class facility capable of meeting growing passenger and cargo demands.
According to Keyamo, the funds for the project were provided directly by President Bola Tinubu without external borrowing, noting that contractors have already commenced work on-site.
He explained that the extensive upgrade goes beyond routine maintenance, involving a comprehensive overhaul of infrastructure at the airport. The project, approved by the Federal Executive Council, is valued at about ₦712 billion and is expected to be completed within 22 months.
“The transformation of Lagos airport reflects Nigeria’s position as one of Africa’s most significant aviation markets. The country is investing heavily to ensure its primary gateway matches its strategic importance,” the minister said.
Keyamo also revealed that the government is expanding aviation infrastructure beyond Lagos, announcing that work will soon resume on a long-delayed second runway at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The project had previously stalled due to security concerns but has now received fresh approval for continuation.
Currently, Lagos relies on a single major international airport, which includes both international and domestic terminals. The facility has recently seen the addition of a new international terminal equipped with modern features such as automated check-in systems aimed at improving passenger experience and operational efficiency.
Plans are also underway for a new airport in the Lekki-Epe corridor, intended to support the growing economic activities within the Lekki Free Trade Zone and ease pressure on existing infrastructure.
The urgency of the ongoing upgrade was highlighted by a fire incident in February 2026 at one of the older terminals, which disrupted operations and damaged critical communication systems. The incident led to the temporary diversion of flights and prompted the government to accelerate reconstruction efforts, including plans to demolish and rebuild affected structures.
With the latest investment, the government aims to modernise Nigeria’s aviation gateways and strengthen its position as a regional hub for air travel and logistics.
