The Federal Government has approved N987 billion for a massive overhaul of aviation infrastructure across Nigeria, marking one of the largest investments in the sector in recent years.
The approval was granted by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) during its meeting on Thursday, presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who briefed journalists after the meeting, said the projects will be fully funded through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund.
According to him, the investments will drive the modernisation of several airports across the country, with a particular focus on Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu.
The most significant portion of the budget—N712.26 billion—has been allocated for the total rehabilitation of International Terminal One at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
Keyamo said the terminal would be stripped down to its structural frame and entirely rebuilt to meet modern international standards.
China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), which built Terminal Two, has been awarded the contract. Terminal Two will also be expanded with new access roads, an apron, bridges, and other infrastructure. The Lagos projects are expected to be completed within 22 months.
In Kano, the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport will undergo critical upgrades including the rehabilitation of both runways and taxiways, along with the installation of Category 2 (CAT 2) airfield lighting.
This project, estimated at N46.39 billion, is scheduled for completion in 24 weeks and is expected to significantly enhance flight operations, especially during the harmattan season.
Port Harcourt International Airport will also benefit from a N42.14 billion runway and taxiway rehabilitation, including similar CAT 2 lighting upgrades to ensure safe landings and take-offs in low-visibility conditions.
The government also approved a major security upgrade for the Lagos airport, involving the construction of a 14.6-kilometre perimeter fence equipped with CCTV cameras, solar floodlights, intrusion detection systems, and patrol roads. This project, valued at nearly N50 billion, is expected to be delivered in 24 months.
In addition, the Council gave its nod to the full business case for a 30-year concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, allowing private investors to take over its operation and management under a public-private partnership arrangement.
Keyamo described the approvals as a significant step toward transforming Nigeria’s aviation sector. He said the projects would not only improve passenger experience and safety but also enhance the overall efficiency and global competitiveness of the nation’s airports.
