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The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved contracts worth N987 billion for the renovation and upgrade of major airports across the country. This was announced by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held on Thursday at the State House, Abuja.
The meeting, which was presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, focused on national infrastructure priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda, and aviation was at the centre of attention this time. Keyamo told newsmen that all the projects approved will be financed through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, which was created by the present administration to fast-track key developmental works across the country.
Mr. Keyamo said the upgrade of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos is the most expensive of all the approved works, with a total cost of N712.26 billion. He explained that the plan is to rehabilitate and modernise International Terminal One, which has served the nation for decades but now needs urgent attention to meet international standards. The job has been awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the same firm that handled Terminal Two.
The rehabilitation in Lagos also includes work on Terminal Two, where a new apron, access roads, bridges, and related infrastructure will be constructed. The entire project is expected to be completed in 22 months.
Apart from Lagos, the Federal Executive Council also approved contracts for similar improvements in other airports. At the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, the government will refurbish both runways and taxiways to enhance aircraft operations and improve passenger safety. The upgrade is designed to reduce flight delays and increase the airport’s operational capacity.
The Port Harcourt International Airport is also set to benefit from the newly approved aviation projects. According to Keyamo, its runway and taxiway will be upgraded, and new Category 2 (CAT 2) standard airfield lighting will be installed. This N42.14 billion project is aimed at improving flight operations during poor weather conditions and boosting the airport’s safety status.
In addition to the physical upgrades, the Federal Government has also approved the full business case for the 30-year concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu. This move, according to the Minister, is part of the Tinubu administration’s broader plan to encourage public-private partnerships (PPP) in the aviation sector and reduce pressure on government finances.
He explained that airport concessions will allow experienced private operators to manage and maintain airport facilities while ensuring better services for passengers and higher revenue generation for the country. The concession plan is still under strict regulation by the Federal Government to ensure that national interest is not compromised.
Keyamo praised President Tinubu for what he described as a “bold and clear decision” to prioritise aviation infrastructure, adding that these developments are critical to attracting investment, supporting tourism, and improving Nigeria’s image in the global aviation industry.
He also appealed to Nigerians to be patient during the execution phase, as some construction works might temporarily affect travel schedules and airport operations. However, he assured that the long-term benefits will far outweigh the short-term inconveniences.
Aviation stakeholders, including airline operators, have reacted positively to the announcement, saying the industry needs urgent investment to meet global aviation safety standards and provide a better travel experience for Nigerians and international visitors.
The approval of nearly N1 trillion for airports comes at a time when many facilities are in dire need of upgrades. Runways in several airports across Nigeria have been reported to have potholes, weak lighting, and outdated navigation systems — all of which pose safety risks to air travellers.
With these new contracts and reforms, the Tinubu administration is positioning Nigeria to have more functional, safer, and modern airports that will serve as hubs in West Africa and beyond.
