Gemini said

This is a massive move for Nigeria’s aviation sector. Minister Festus Keyamo officially announced on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, that the Federal Government is investing approximately $500 million (roughly ₦712 billion) in cash to undergo a total modernization of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos.

Funding Strategy: In a notable shift, the Minister emphasized that this is a cash investment provided by President Bola Tinubu through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund. It is not being funded through foreign or local loans.

The “Schiphol” Strip-Down: Terminal 1 (the old international wing) will be stripped down to its structural frame and rebuilt from scratch. This includes entirely new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, a modern glass facade, and automated gates.

Unified Complex: A new skywalk and ring roads will be built to seamlessly connect Terminals 1 and 2, effectively turning them into one integrated facility.

Security Upgrades: A ₦49.9 billion project is included for 14.6km of perimeter fencing equipped with intrusion detection systems, CCTV, and solar-powered floodlights.

Timeline: The project has a strict 22-month delivery window. Contractors (CCECC) have already moved to the site as of today.

The urgency was likely accelerated by a fire at Terminal 1 in late February 2026, which originated in the IT server room and destroyed critical communication equipment. Following that incident, Keyamo ordered the demolition of the old terminal to make way for this comprehensive overhaul.

During the same summit, the Minister also dropped a “first-time” announcement regarding the Abuja Airport, confirming that the President has approved the resumption of work on the second runway, which had previously been stalled.