FEC approves N987bn for Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt airports overhaul

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved contracts worth N987 billion for the comprehensive upgrade of aviation infrastructure across Nigeria.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed this to journalists on Thursday after the FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Keyamo explained that the funding for the projects would come from the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, part of the administration’s strategic initiative to revamp critical infrastructure across key sectors.

He said the aviation sector was receiving significant attention under this initiative, with major upgrades approved for airports across the country.

A large portion of the fund, N712.26 billion, will go into the complete rehabilitation and modernisation of International Terminal One at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

The terminal, according to the minister, will be stripped down to its structural frame and rebuilt to international standards. The project will involve replacing all mechanical and electrical systems.

The contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), which previously handled the construction of Terminal Two, has also been awarded this project. Terminal Two is also slated for expansion, with plans to add a new apron, access roads, bridges, and supporting infrastructure. The entire Lagos project is expected to be completed within 22 months.

FEC also approved a N46.39 billion upgrade for Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, which includes the rehabilitation of both runways and taxiways, along with the installation of Category 2 (CAT 2) airfield ground lighting systems.

Keyamo noted that the upgrade, expected to be completed in 24 weeks, will significantly improve flight safety and reduce delays and cancellations, particularly during the harmattan season.

In Port Harcourt, the international airport will also undergo runway and taxiway rehabilitation, including CAT 2 airfield lighting upgrades, at a cost of N42.14 billion.

The improvement aims to enhance operational safety during poor weather conditions.

To strengthen security at the Lagos airport, the council approved nearly N50 billion for the construction of a 14.6-kilometre perimeter fence. The fence will be fitted with CCTV surveillance, solar-powered floodlights, intrusion detection systems, and patrol roads.

The project will take 24 months to complete.

Keyamo also announced that FEC granted approval for the full business case of a 30-year concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.

The concession is aimed at attracting private sector investment and improving long-term operational efficiency.

The minister described the developments as a major step forward for the aviation sector, assuring that the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund will be instrumental in resolving long-standing infrastructure challenges and modernising Nigeria’s airports to meet global standards.