Nigeria’s Presidential Council Approves N987 Billion for Airport Infrastructure Upgrades
Nigeria’s Presidential Council, led by President Bola Tinubu, has approved contracts worth N987 billion (approximately $2.17 billion) for extensive upgrades at major airports across the country. The projects will be funded through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s aviation sector.
At the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held on Thursday, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, revealed the approved contracts. Keyamo expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for prioritizing aviation for massive infrastructural upgrades.
Lagos’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport is set to receive significant attention. The complete rehabilitation and modernization of International Terminal One, the centerpiece of the upgrades, is expected to transform the airport’s infrastructure. The terminal will be stripped down to its structural frame and rebuilt to meet international standards, with a complete overhaul of its mechanical and electrical systems. The project, valued at N712.26 billion, is expected to take 22 months to complete and has been awarded to CCECC, the company responsible for constructing Terminal Two in Lagos. In addition to the terminal upgrades, Terminal Two will be expanded to include a new apron, access roads, bridges, and related infrastructure.
Upgrades at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport include the rehabilitation of both runways and taxiways, with airfield ground lighting upgraded to Category 2 (CAT 2) standards. This extensive project, costing N46.39 billion and scheduled for completion within 24 weeks, aims to enhance flight safety, particularly during the hazy harmattan seasons that have historically caused delays and cancellations.
In a significant security enhancement, a 14.6 km perimeter fence equipped with CCTV, solar floodlights, intrusion detection systems, and patrol roads has been approved for Lagos airport. This project, valued at nearly N50 billion, will be completed within 24 months.
Runway and taxiway rehabilitation, along with upgraded airfield lighting to CAT 2 standards, are planned for Port Harcourt International Airport. This project, costing N42.14 billion, is expected to improve safety and operations during adverse weather conditions.
Furthermore, the FEC approved the full business case for a 30-year concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu. This concession is intended to attract private sector investment in the aviation sector.
These significant upgrades, backed by substantial funding, signify President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and enhancing the safety and travel experience for passengers.
