FEC approves N987 billion for major airport upgrades nationwide

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has given its approval for contracts worth N987 billion to finance extensive infrastructure upgrades at airports across Nigeria.

This decision was announced by Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, following Thursday’s FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja.

Keyamo explained that the projects would be funded through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, a key financial instrument of the current administration.

“Today, it was the turn of aviation to receive the kind attention of the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund,” Keyamo stated.

“We are very grateful that His Excellency the President has focused on aviation for massive infrastructural upgrades across the country.”

The centerpiece of these upgrades is the complete rehabilitation and modernization of International Terminal One at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.

The terminal, according to the minister, will be “stripped down to its structural frame and rebuilt to meet international standards,” with the entire mechanical and electrical systems being redone.

The project, which is fully funded by the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund, has been awarded to CCECC, the company responsible for constructing Terminal Two in Lagos.

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Terminal Two itself will also undergo expansion to include a new apron, access roads, bridges, and other related infrastructure.

The total cost for the rehabilitation of the Lagos airports is pegged at N712.26 billion, with an expected completion timeframe of 22 months.

In addition to the Lagos projects, FEC also approved significant upgrades at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport.

This includes the rehabilitation of both runways and taxiways, as well as an upgrade of the airfield ground lighting to Category 2 (CAT 2) standards.

This upgrade, costing N46.39 billion and scheduled for completion within 24 weeks, is expected to “significantly enhance flight safety, especially during the hazy harmattan seasons that have historically caused delays and cancellations,” Keyamo said.

A major security enhancement was also approved for the Lagos airport.

This project involves the construction of a 14.6 km perimeter fence equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including CCTV, solar floodlights, and intrusion detection systems, along with patrol roads.

This security project is valued at nearly N50 billion and is slated for completion in 24 months.

Furthermore, Port Harcourt International Airport will benefit from runway and taxiway rehabilitation, with its airfield lighting also being upgraded to CAT 2 standards.

The project, costing N42.14 billion, is aimed at improving safety and operational efficiency during adverse weather conditions.

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