The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has sanctioned contracts totalling N987 billion aimed at comprehensive infrastructure enhancements at airports throughout Nigeria.
Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, made this announcement following Thursday’s FEC meeting, which was chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja. He stated that the initiatives would be financed through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund.
“Today, aviation received significant attention from the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund. We are immensely grateful to His Excellency the President for prioritising substantial infrastructural advancements in the aviation sector across the nation,” he remarked.
A key focus of these upgrades is the complete renovation and modernisation of International Terminal One at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The terminal will be entirely stripped to its structural frame and reconstructed to conform to international standards.
“We have opted to dismantle it to its bare bones, then completely overhaul the mechanical and electrical systems,” Keyamo added. The project, fully funded by the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund, has been awarded to CCECC, the same company that constructed Terminal Two in Lagos. This terminal will also see an expansion to include a new apron, access roads, bridges, and additional infrastructure.
The overall cost for revamping the airports in Lagos is projected at N712.26 billion, with an estimated completion period of 22 months. Additionally, the FEC approved upgrades at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, which will involve rehabilitating both runways and taxiways, as well as enhancing the airfield ground lighting to Category 2 (CAT 2) standards.
“This upgrade, amounting to N46.39 billion and expected to be completed within 24 weeks, aims to significantly improve flight safety, particularly during the hazy harmattan season, which has historically led to delays and cancellations. With the new navigational aids being introduced in Kano, aircraft will be able to land even in poor visibility conditions,” he noted.
A significant security enhancement was also greenlit for Lagos airport, which includes a 14.6 km perimeter fence fitted with CCTV, solar floodlights, intrusion detection systems, and patrol roads. This security initiative is valued at nearly N50 billion and is scheduled for completion within 24 months.
Furthermore, Port Harcourt International Airport will undergo runway and taxiway rehabilitation, alongside upgraded airfield lighting to CAT 2 standards. This project, costing N42.14 billion, is expected to enhance safety and operational efficiency during adverse weather conditions.
Lastly, Mr Keyamo announced that the FEC has approved the full business case for a 30-year concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.
(NAN)
