FAAN To Suspend Lease, Tenancy Renewals During MMIA Upgrade
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced plans to commence a phased renovation of Terminal One at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, as part of efforts to modernise the nation’s busiest airport and improve operational efficiency.
FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, made the disclosure during a stakeholder engagement forum organised by the agency’s Directorate of Commercial and Business Development.
The forum, themed “Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Growth and Development,” brought together key airport stakeholders and concessionaires to discuss the upcoming infrastructure upgrade and its operational impact.
Kuku stated that although the renovation had long been necessary, delays had occurred due to outstanding approvals and logistical considerations.
She clarified that contrary to rumours, Terminal One would not be demolished, but renovated in phases to minimise disruption to airport operations.
“The renovation will be carried out in stages, starting with the departure area,” Kuku said. “During construction, operations will temporarily shift to the arrival hall or a designated provisional departure facility.”
She assured concessionaires and business operators that they would be fully engaged throughout the process. “All stakeholders, including those running retail outlets or occupying commercial spaces, will be carried along at every stage of the upgrade,” Kuku said, adding that the phased approach would allow for business continuity.
The renovation project, expected to span one to two years, will be preceded by a temporary suspension of lease renewals and new tenancy approvals. According to Kuku, this decision is to ensure proper planning and avoid approving contracts that might be disrupted soon after commencement.
“It wouldn’t be right to approve a lease, collect payments, and then begin major renovations,” she said, emphasizing the importance of fairness and transparency in the process.
Kuku also revealed that new jet bridges and conveyor belts had already been delivered and would soon be installed as part of the wider upgrade. These additions are expected to significantly enhance passenger flow and ease of movement at the terminal.
She noted that the existing boarding bridges cannot currently support the simultaneous docking of multiple wide-body aircraft, a limitation the upgrade seeks to address. The new infrastructure, she said, will enable the terminal to accommodate rising passenger volumes and meet international service standards.
Commending airport staff and managers for maintaining seamless operations despite the challenges of impending construction, Kuku called for continued cooperation.
“We appreciate your efforts and ask for your continued support as we work to modernise Terminal One and deliver a better experience for all users,” she said.
FAAN To Suspend Lease, Tenancy Renewals During MMIA Upgrade is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
