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  • Reps launch probe into airport, seaport concessions

    Reps launch probe into airport, seaport concessions

    The House of Representatives on Tuesday commenced an investigation into the concessioning and management of Nigeria’s seaports and airports to assess whether the arrangements have delivered value for money and contributed to the country’s economic development.

    The probe was announced at the inaugural meeting of the ad hoc committee constituted to conduct the investigation.

    Speaking at the meeting, Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, said the legislature was determined to ensure that the concession of critical national infrastructure was achieving its intended objectives.

    According to him, the committee is mandated to investigate, examine, and evaluate the performance of concessionaires operating federal airport and seaport terminals, as well as related shipping activities, from 2006 to 2025.

    It will also assess the benefits that have accrued to the Federal Government within the period.

    Abbas explained that the decision to concession key assets, particularly airports and seaports, was aimed at improving efficiency, attracting private sector investment, modernising infrastructure, enhancing service delivery, and increasing government revenue, while reducing the operational burden on the state.

    He added that nearly two decades after the introduction of the concession framework, it has become necessary for the National Assembly, in its representative capacity, to undertake a comprehensive review of the outcomes of the policy.

    He said, “For the avoidance of doubt, this exercise is not an attempt to undermine legitimate private sector participation. It is rather an expression of the House’s constitutional mandate to conduct oversight, ensure accountability, and safeguard national interests.

    “Nigerians deserve to know whether these concessions have delivered value for money, complied with contractual obligations, enhanced national competitiveness, protected public assets, and contributed meaningfully to economic growth, employment, and revenue generation.”

    Thew Speaker said further that the scope of the Committee’s assignment is broad and critical, including, “An examination of the terms and conditions of concession agreements entered into from 2006 to 2025; an assessment of revenue flows, remittances, and other financial benefits accruing to the Federal Government and its agencies and a review of compliance with contractual, regulatory, and safety obligations by concessionaires.”

    The committee is also to conduct an appraisal of infrastructure development, operational efficiency, service quality, and labour issues.

    Identify the challenges, gaps, and systemic weaknesses within the concession framework, and formulate clear, practicable recommendations to improve policy, legislation, and future concession arrangements.

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    Turning to members of the committee, the Speaker told them that “the House has reposed enormous confidence in your integrity, competence, and sense of patriotism. You are expected to carry out this assignment with objectivity, professionalism, and transparency, guided solely by facts, documents, and the overriding national interest. Your work must reflect fairness to all stakeholders while remaining firm in the defence of public assets and public trust.

    “I urge you to openly and constructively engage relevant stakeholders; Let your proceedings be thorough, evidence-based, and free from preconceived conclusions. Above all, ensure that your findings and recommendations will strengthen governance, deepen accountability, and enhance the sustainability of Nigeria’s transport and maritime sectors”.

    He said the outcome of this investigation will not only shape public confidence in concessioning as a policy tool but will also inform future reforms in public-private partnerships across critical sectors of our economy. History will judge us by how faithfully we discharge this responsibility to the Nigerian people.

    Chairman of the committee, Kolawole Akinlayo, said the Committee was constituted in response to growing national concern over the management, performance, transparency, and value outcomes of concession arrangements governing some of Nigeria’s most strategic public assets.

    He said these assets, which include seaports, airports, terminals, and jetties, are not ordinary commercial facilities but are sovereign economic gateways, national security infrastructure, and critical enablers of trade, mobility, and development.

    The Ekiti lawmaker said the House recognizes the critical importance of the nation’s maritime and port infrastructure to economic growth, trade facilitation, and national revenue generation, and resolved to establish this Committee to ensure a thorough and evidence-based review of the benefits accruing to the Federal Government from these operations.

    Her assured that the Committee will engage relevant government agencies, regulatory bodies, and private sector stakeholders, including the Nigerian Ports Authority, concessionaires, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigeria Customs Service, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Bureau of Public Procurement, the Shippers’ Council, operators of crude oil and gas terminals, domestic vessel owners and charterers, importers, shipping companies and Banks.

    He said, “Our engagements will focus on compliance with applicable laws, operational efficiencies, complaints of statutory breaches, and revenue performance, among other critical areas.

    “Our objective is clear: to ensure that the Federal Government and the Nigerian people derive maximum benefits from our port and terminal operations, that revenues due are fully captured, and that operational lapses or inefficiencies are identified and addressed.

    “This is not only an exercise in review but a critical step toward strengthening governance, promoting accountability, and fostering an enabling environment for sustainable growth in Nigeria’s maritime sector.”

  • Year of fleet, infrastructure expansion

    Year of fleet, infrastructure expansion

    As operators , players and regulators file the flight plan for 2026 ,  achieving  headwinds for the strategic industry  would require  continuation of on – going rehabilitation of airport and air navigation infrastructure and other interventions intended by the Federal Government to change the face of the air transport ecosystem and passengers’ travel experience. As 2026  unfolds,  industry watchers look forward to resolution on issues bordering on  concession of airports, sustainability of existing and fledgling carriers as well as  automation of airports’ revenue points. Significantly, parameters to achieving robust regulation for the sector, hurdles around leasing of airplanes , the foray of State Governments into airline/cargo business and other developments will be on the burner , writes KELVIN OSA – OKUNBOR

    As the aircraft of the aviation sector taxies into the runway for Flight 2026 take – off, expectations are high of the series of activities lined up for the months ahead as the on- going refurbishment of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos consolidates.

    Industry watchers are optimistic that the Federal Government’s decision to plough over N712 billion into the project will change both the ambience and functionality of the premier gateway into the country.

    The project , which started last year is already gaining traction as construction work is advancing around the Lagos International Airport.

    Experts and industry watchers say the progress of the  project will be a major shift in  aviation infrastructure, demonstrating the Federal Government’s desire to bring airport facilities up to the required global standards.

    Speaking in an interview, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku said the 2026 will be a defining moment for the airport authority as it recalibrates its strategy to improve airport infrastructure and other interventions that will improve the travel experience for users of the facility.

    Kuku also  outlined several key plans for 2026, primarily focusing on completing the transition to a fully cashless operation and leveraging this to reinvest in infrastructure and cargo development.

    The FAAN boss said the authority as part of activities to look forward to in 2026 is the full implementation of the cashless policy, for which it has set the first quarter as deadline.

    She said : “ This initiative, which began its pilot phase in late 2025 at the Lagos and Abuja airports, is expected to increase revenue collection by 75 percent , with the ultimate goal of tripling revenue within the first year of full implementation. The additional funds are earmarked for infrastructural development.Funds generated from the new revenue streams, along with other financing efforts, will be strategically reinvested into improving infrastructure across Nigerian airports. This includes addressing issues like aging runways and completing ongoing rehabilitation works to move away from “haphazard” fixes to long-term structured improvements.

    “A major focus for 2026 is transforming Nigeria into a dominant cargo hub for West Africa, shifting from being primarily import-driven to a strategic gateway for exports.

    “ FAAN aims to align with global best practices through partnerships with international experts in ground handling, logistics, and management. This also involves closing International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) audit gaps and enhancing staff capacity through certified training programs.

    “Overall, 2026 is viewed by FAAN management as a year of significant progress and accomplishment, focused on efficiency, transparency, and elevating the Nigerian aviation experience to global standards.”

    Besides the airport authority, watchers of the aviation ecosystem look forward to how the Federal Government will navigate the contention around the concession of some airport terminals, which is expected to migrate into private sector management.

    Speaking on the development, The newly elected President of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Comrade John Ogbe said managers should  focus in 2026 on improving workers’ welfare, fostering an inclusive union environment, and engaging in constructive negotiations with industry stakeholders.

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    Ogbe said the welfare of ATSSSAN members will be the central focus of the industry ,  ensuring the union is truly run by and for its members.

     He intends to move away from “banging on tables” to a more collaborative approach in negotiations with government and private-sector employers.   Ogbe plans to work with government agencies, private sector players, and other partners to help pilot and deliver necessary progress for the Nigerian aviation industry as a whole.

    As the industry rides on the optimism of recovery, experts look forward to the establishment of more indigenous carriers as the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), issues more Air Operators Certificate (AOC), for fledgling carriers. These new entrants are expected to add value to the ecosystem offering capacity and boosting competition.

    Among the carriers expected to commence flight operations in 2026 include : Binani Airlines, Pioneer Airlines, K- Impex Airlines and others that have secured approvals to fly.

    In 2026, the investment space into aviation is expected to be expanded as more State Governments join Enugu, Akwa Ibom , Ogun , Ebonyi , Bayelsa and others to either acquire aircraft for airlines or explore opportunities in the cargo / logistic value chain.

    Speaking on the development, Group Managing Director of Finchglow Holdings, Mr Bankole Bernard disclosed plans of diversification for 2026.

    According to the former president of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies  (NANTA), 2026 will witness more players venturing into cargo airlines and an aviation flying school with foreign partners.

    Bernard said the year 2026 will offer opportunities for players in the aviation and allied sectors to engage State Governments as more airports are being constructed in their domains, projecting that cargo business will gain more traction as players optimise benefits in the value chain.

    To drive this, he said his enlistment as Chairman of Cargo Accounts Settlement System (CASS), offers a window to exploit the gains of cargo business in Nigeria.

     CASS offers recognised settlement procedures, proper billing and seamless reconciliation. He said these functions will provide a transparent flow of funds between airlines and cargo agents, therefore encouraging investment and global confidence. Bernard added that Nigeria’s Cargo Business cannot grow without standards that reflect international expectations.

    CASS limits direct dealings with airlines to IATA-accredited cargo agents. He said this step will push operators to formalise their activities if they wish to remain relevant in the Cargo Business.

    He said several airlines have already begun full integration into the Nigerian CASS platform. He explained that while Ghana has operated CASS successfully for over two years, Nigeria’s progress was delayed by operational issues. His election has, however, renewed confidence and created fresh momentum among stakeholders. He said, “More airlines are showing interest because they see what has happened on the BSP.”

    Bernard noted that Turkish Airlines will join the system in early 2026. He described the carrier as a major freight player that moves significant volumes into Nigeria each day. “By January, Turkish Airlines is coming fully on board. These are major carriers of cargo going into Nigeria daily,” he said.

     He added that participation by such airlines lifts the credibility of the platform and deepens its value for Nigeria’s Cargo Business.

    He linked the role of CASS to the global reach enjoyed by airlines in the BSP. Bernard said BSP allows a passenger ticket to be issued in any part of the world, and CASS will now extend similar benefits to freight.

    He stressed that CASS will force a renewed focus from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria. According to him, “FAAN will see the direction of cargo business immediately and they’ll start to pay attention to it.

     He noted that a meeting with the FAAN Managing Director is planned for January or February 2026 to discuss the role of CASS and its value proposition to the Nigerian market.”

    On the regulatory front, industry watchers look forward to enhanced oversight duties by the NCAA, which is already putting measures in place to boost its civil aviation police duties.

    Significantly, experts look forward to intensified overhaul of key units in the NCAA to boost its global image as the authority enhances the discharge of its duties.

    They say the NCAA should step up its sanction of airlines in order to protect the interest of the members of the flying public .

    According to  NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Michael Achimugu,   seven airlines were sanctioned in 2025 for various violations of passenger rights.

    He  warned of  stricter enforcement and more penalties will follow in 2026 as part of efforts to improve service quality across the aviation ecosystem.

    He also urged air travellers to stop repeatedly patronising airlines that consistently offer poor services and instead explore better alternatives available in the market.

    “Flight delays and cancellations will never end. Not in Nigeria, not on earth. What we can do is bring them down to the barest minimum, but more importantly, enforce the regulations by ensuring that airlines provide the care that passengers are entitled to during a disruption. We will also sanction airlines a lot in 2026. 7 were sanctioned in 2025, but we will do more in 2026,” he said.

    He added that flight delays and cancellations are a global reality and cannot be completely eliminated, but can be reduced to the barest minimum through effective regulation and strict compliance with consumer protection rules.

    “What we can do is enforce regulations to ensure airlines provide the care passengers are entitled to during disruptions. We will also sanction airlines a lot more in 2026,” Achimugu said.

    From the ground handling perspective , operators look forward to the diversification of business for players in the sector in 2026 as they explore investment into courier business, travel and hospitality and other businesses.

    Speaking on the outlook for 2026, Managing Director of Skyways Aviation Handling Company ( SAHCO) Plc, Mrs Adenike Aboderin the company will focus on other revenue streams beyond ground handling to establish other businesses.

    On the indigenous airlines front the year 2026 will be defining as operators will try their hands out on route expansion into regional and intercontinental routes.

    Airlines to watch will include : Air Peace, Ibom Air, United Nigeria Airlines , Overland Airways , NGEagle Airlines, UMZA Airlines, Max Air , Green Africa Airways and ValueJets Airlines.

    Attention , experts say should also beam on Lagos State Government as it wraps up plans to attract investors into the commencement of its airport in the Lekki/Epe corridor; Ogun State Government as flight and other activities intensifies at its airport in Iperu , near Sagamu in the gateway state.

    Experts say, it is unclear whether the Federal Government will activate plans on the establishment of the controversial national carrier – Nigeria Air.

    Industry watchers are optimistic that the sector will achieve headwinds on the conditions attached to the leasing of airplanes by indigenous operators as Nigeria exits the list of blacklisted countries by global aircraft lessors and other entities that facilitate airplanes for airlines.

    This expectation is coming on the heels of the quick wings achieved by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace development.

    Nigeria, recently  exited the global aircraft lessor blacklist after years of being considered high-risk, thanks to reforms like adopting the Cape Town Convention and signing IDERA, significantly improving its aviation compliance score and restoring confidence for easier access to dry-leasing, a more cost-effective method for airlines to acquire aircraft.

    The Aviation Working Group (AWG) removed Nigeria from the blacklist allowing its carriers to  secure more favorable lease deals.

    Nigeria implemented a new practice direction allowing lessors to repossess aircraft within five days of default, addressing a major past concern.

    The blacklisting stemmed from past defaults and legal issues that made lessors hesitant to provide aircraft.

     By implementing legal and regulatory reforms, Nigeria has removed these barriers, allowing its aviation sector to grow more sustainably.

  • ‘Ogun Airport long term investment’

    ‘Ogun Airport long term investment’

    The Gateway State International Airport, Ilishan Remo, has been described as the best, long term investment bequeathed to the state by the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration.

    Chairman, Governor’s Elders Advisory Council, Chief Olu Okuboyejo, stated this when he led other members of the council on an inspection tour of the airport.

    Okuboyejo, who expressed delight with the state-of-the-art facilities at the airport, noted that it could be compared to the best anywhere across the globe.

    He said: “It is an excellent airport. I have traveled the whole length of the world, and in all these places, I am proud to say that what I have seen here today measures up and is much better than a number of other airports.”

    “It is the best long-term investment. As it grows over the years, its developmental progress becomes so magnificent that you cannot imagine.

    “Some of us know what Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos used to be many years ago and what it is now. This airport has been planned for the next 20-30 years in terms of growth and development.”

    The elder statesman, while describing the airport as the best legacy of Dapo Abiodun’s administration, expressed optimism that its objectives would be met. He also suggested that plans should be made to get the approval of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to enable the airport to operate international flights, as this would generate income and make it self-financing.

    The Elders Council Chairman lauded Governor Abiodun for following the path of great men who build renowned airports across the world, adding that apart from engendering development, the edifice would stand as a reminder of his good works for generations to come.

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    “Those who build renowned airports in the world are still remembered up till now, and Governor Abiodun will not be an exception. We, his advisers, the elderly, are happy that our own son is putting this up in our own time,” Chief Okuboyejo concluded.

    Ogun State Commissioner for Transportation,  Engr. Gbenga Dairo, said the airport was designed to serve as an anchor project for the various industrial activities taking place in different parts of the state, particularly the axis that falls under the Remo Economic Cluster.

    He noted that the airport, in years to come, would be bigger, busier, and experience more activities as other infrastructure begins to spring up.

    While assuring that the airport boasts up-to-date facilities, the Commissioner reiterated that the passenger terminal, cargo warehouses, independent power plant, fire station, control tower, among others, are ready on the ground for the airport to begin commercial flights.

    The Airport Manager, Captain Dapo Olumide, while conducting the elders around the facility, said officers from relevant aviation regulatory bodies are already at the airport, while finishing touches are being done to ensure seamless flight operations.

    He disclosed that the first commercial flight is expected to commence next week Tuesday, as passengers from Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, Abeokuta, and other parts of the state have started booking

  • Passengers face more disruption after cyber attack on European airports

    Passengers face more disruption after cyber attack on European airports

    Passengers are experiencing continued travel disruption at multiple European airports, including London Heathrow, following an alleged cyber attack that impacted a key service provider responsible for check-in and boarding systems.

    Delays and service interruptions were reported at Heathrow, Brussels, and Berlin airports on Saturday, after a “technical issue” affected Collins Aerospace – a company that provides check-in and boarding support to numerous airlines worldwide.

    The issues began on Friday night and extended into Saturday, causing flight delays and cancellations as airlines resorted to manual check-in and boarding procedures.

    Travellers flying from Heathrow’s Terminal 4 reported long queues, uncertainty, and confusion about whether they would be able to depart as scheduled.

    Heathrow said yesterday that passengers should check their flight status before travelling to the west London airport.

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    “Work continues to resolve and recover from Friday’s outage of a Collins Aerospace airline system that impacted check-in,” Heathrow said.

    “We apologise to those who have faced delays, but by working together with airlines, the vast majority of flights have continued to operate.

    “We encourage passengers to check the status of their flight before travelling to Heathrow and to arrive no earlier than three hours for long-haul flights and two hours for short-haul.”

    British Airways operations at Terminal 5 were not affected and continued as normal, according to airport sources.

    Across other terminals, around 14 flights were cancelled and several more were delayed on Saturday, though it remains unclear which of these disruptions were directly caused by the technical issue.

    Brussels Airport confirmed the cyber attack in a statement: “The service provider is actively working on the issue and trying to resolve the problem as quickly as possible.

    “This has a large impact on the flight schedule and will, unfortunately, cause delays and cancellations of flights.”

    The airport also warned that cancellations and delays would likely extend into yesterday.

    Meanwhile, Berlin Airport posted an update on its website, noting increased wait times at check-in due to the issue.

    Collins Aerospace acknowledged the disruption and stated: “We have become aware of a cyber-related disruption to our Muse (multi-user system environment) software in select airports.

    “We are actively working to resolve the issue and restore full functionality to our customers as quickly as possible.

    “The impact is limited to electronic customer check-in and baggage drop and can be mitigated with manual check-in operations.”

    The European Commission, which plays a role in overseeing airspace across the continent, is monitoring the situation. However, it has so far indicated that the alleged cyber attack does not appear to be widespread or critical in scope.

    A spokesperson said: “The commission is closely monitoring the cyber attack that has disrupted airline check-in and boarding systems for several airlines across multiple airports globally.

  • FG begins process to decarbonise Abuja airport to reduce operational costs

    FG begins process to decarbonise Abuja airport to reduce operational costs

    The federal government has disclosed plans to commence the decarbonisation of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the challenges posed by climate change demand decisive, concerted action by stakeholders to embrace decarbonisation.

    He suggested exploring group electrification of aprons and terminals, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) corridors, and waste-to-energy projects to reduce emissions in airport operations.

    The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, disclosed this at a stakeholder engagement on carbon emissions management at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) in Abuja, organised by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

    He noted that achieving Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) certification for Abuja airport would show the world that Nigeria is open for sustainable business.

    He said, “The global aviation community stands at a crossroads. On one hand, we are drivers of economic growth, connectivity, and national development. On the other hand, we are duty-bound to address our environmental impact with utmost seriousness.

    “The challenge of climate change is not a distant theoretical concern, it is a present and pressing reality that demands decisive, concerted action. For Nigeria, a nation poised for exponential growth in air travel and trade, embedding sustainability into the very core of our aviation infrastructure is not an option; it is an imperative for long-term, resilient prosperity.”

    He explained that modern, fuel-efficient aircraft and environmentally conscious international airlines are, and will continue to be drawn to hubs that can offer efficient, low-carbon operations.

    “Achieving ACA certification for Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport is therefore a powerful signal to the world that Nigeria is open for sustainable business.”

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    The Minister, however, noted that the reduction in emissions requires investment, innovation and a shift in operation.

    “Let us be clear-eyed about the task ahead. It requires investment, innovation, and a profound shift in how we operate. But the rewards are a cleaner environment, reduced operational costs, enhanced global reputation, and a sustainable industry for our children.

    “The authority cannot accomplish this in isolation. The complex ecosystem of an airport means that emissions are generated from a multitude of sources: aircraft landing and take-off cycles operated by our airline partners, ground support equipment powered by our handlers, vehicular traffic from staff and passengers, and the energy footprint of concessions and catering services.”

    On some measures to reduce emission, Keyamo said, “We must explore tangible initiatives by phasing out auxiliary power units which are inefficient and highly polluting, work with energy providers to ensure a reliable and increasing share of power comes from renewable sources and begin dialogues with fuel marketers and regulators to explore the feasibility of introducing sustainable aviation fuel blends into our supply chain.”

    The Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs.Olubunmi Kuku said climate change poses threat to global aviation industry, with potential negative ripple effects on business and livelihood if not.properly managed.

    Mrs. Kuku who was represented by the Director of Human Resource and Administration, Dr. Luqman Eniola said FAAN is committed to decarbonising its operations through implementation of strategic measures. 

    On the essence of the stakeholder.engagement she said, “This forum is expected to help FAAN to understand emission management measures so that we can integrate them into our carbon management plan for the airport, where it is necessary”. 

    She hinted that the FAAN ACA Team and the Carbon Emission Reduction Committee (CERC) carried out mapping in Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Enugu and Port Harcourt, noting that electricity consumption accounted for about 90% of the total emissions for Lagos airport from 2017 to 2023. 

    Kuku said implementation of emission reduction measures for the Lagos airport has commenced, adding that more actions will be considered in the reconstruction and expansion of the airport’s terminal buildings.

    “The Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, is also important to us and this is why we are hosting this event today to ensure that we hear from you, and we will journey together. As they say, ‘never walk alone’! We want to walk with you, and we need you to walk with us in our determination of net-zero emissions target in our airport operations.”

  • FG to reconstruct Lagos Airport Terminal, target 20 million annual passengers

    FG to reconstruct Lagos Airport Terminal, target 20 million annual passengers

    In a bold step to modernize Nigeria’s busiest airport, the federal government is set to carry out a complete reconstruction of the old terminal at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.

    The planned overhaul aims to boost the terminal’s capacity from 3 million to 20 million passengers annually, positioning it for future aviation demands.

    Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed this in a tweet responding to commendations from UK-based Chartered Management Consultant, Dr Dipo Awojide. 

    Awojide had praised the visible improvements at the airport, highlighting enhanced cleanliness, efficiency, and design.

    “Kudos @fkeyamo, Lagos airport has changed for good,” Awojide remarked.

    “Aircraft to welcome area looks cleaner and the security area is well designed. My bag came out in 10 minutes. Exit to parking area is way better. I say this as someone who has been travelling for over 15 years. This is the easiest it has been for me in Lagos,” he

    While noting that “a few more cultural issues” remained to be addressed, Awojide, however, acknowledged that overall, there was significant improvement.

    Keyamo welcomed the praise but struck a candid tone in his reply, saying the airport, like others across the country, remains well below international standards despite ongoing improvements.

    “Thank you, @OgbeniDipo for your compliments. But our airports are still far away from global standards, I must admit. We are just making the best of the situation as we found it,” Keyamo said.

    Offering critical context, the minister revealed that the old MMIA terminal, built in 1977, was originally designed for just 200,000 passengers per year. “Now, we are doing about 3 million passengers in that airport alone per annum and about 15 million nationwide per annum. See the difference!” he noted.

    Highlighting the long-standing neglect of aviation infrastructure, Keyamo said the facilities have “almost collapsed” from decades of overuse. But change, he assured, is finally on the runway.

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    “Thanks to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we are about to embark on a total rebuilding of the old MMI Airport in Lagos to meet modern standards, with a projection of about 20 million passengers per annum,” Keyamo announced, adding that full details of the project will be unveiled to Nigerians in the coming weeks.

    The planned upgrade signals a major turning point in the Tinubu administration’s aviation strategy, positioning Lagos as a true regional hub capable of competing globally. According to experts, this marks a hopeful takeoff toward a better flying experience for travellers long accustomed to bottlenecks and poor service.

  • Minna Airport to resume direct flights to Lagos, Abuja on April 23 after 15-year break

    Minna Airport to resume direct flights to Lagos, Abuja on April 23 after 15-year break

    The Niger State Government has announced that direct commercial flights from Minna to Lagos and Abuja will resume on April 23, 2025, from the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna.

    This marks the first time in over 15 years that such routes will be operational.

    Overland Airways Limited has been selected as the pioneer airline for the new routes. The Chief Operating Officer of New Niger Aviation (NNA), Alhaji Liman Katamba Kutigi, described the launch as a significant step in positioning Niger State as a hub for investment, trade, and tourism.

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    “This launch is more than an air route. It’s a bridge to opportunity. By partnering with Overland Airways, we are setting a new standard in regional air connectivity, with safety, reliability, and economic impact at the centre,” Kutigi said.

    According to the flight schedule, trips to Lagos will depart at 8 a.m., while flights to Abuja will take off at 9:30 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

    Capt. Edward Boyo, CEO of Overland Airways, expressed delight at being selected for the project and confirmed that the airline will operate the new routes using its state-of-the-art Embraer E-175 aircraft.

    “This service underscores our commitment to expanding connectivity across Nigeria and partnering with visionary governments like Niger State to bring growth closer to the people. We applaud Governor Bago and the NNA team for this bold and transformational move.”

  • Reps pass amended Bill stripping SWDC of 3% seaports, airport, oil, gas revenues

    Reps pass amended Bill stripping SWDC of 3% seaports, airport, oil, gas revenues

    The House of Representatives has passed the amended South West Development Commission (SWDC) Bill striping the commission of revenue earned through the airport, seaport or gas companies operating in the Southwest region.

    Speaker Tajudeen Abbas had explained told members at Tuesday’s plenary when the Bill was considered that the reconsideration was due to an objection the President raised over certain provisions of the Bill.

    He said the President objected to the provisions because they were in conflict with the provisions of the Constitution.

    The new Bill, which was read for the third time and passed yesterday after its consideration and approval on Tuesday, would be sent back to the President for his assent.

    The Bill, seeks to “establish South West Development Commission charged with the responsibility, among other things, to receive and manage funds from allocation of the Federation Account, including donations and gifts for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Infrastructural damages suffered in the region and to tackle the ecological, environmental and other developmental challenges in the Region and for related matters”.

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    The amendments to the Establishment Act sought to delete clauses 14(b, c, d and e).

    Clause 14(b), which provided that: “Three per cent of the annual budget of any federal seaport and airport operating in the South West,” was deleted.

    Similarly, Clause 14(c), which provided that: “Three per cent of the total annual budget of any oil producing company operating, on shore and off shore, in the South West States: including gas processing companies,” was also deleted.

    Also, Clause 14(d) provided that: “Three per cent of the total annual budget of any Solid mineral extracting mining company operating in the South West States.”

    Clause 14(e), which provided that: “50 per cent of monies due to member-states of the commission from the Ecological Fund,” was deleted.

    The law provides that “the commission shall establish and maintain a fund, the proceeds of which shall be used to defray all expenditures incurred by the commission”.

  • ‘How to diversify airport’s revenue’

    ‘How to diversify airport’s revenue’

    An airline pilot and aviation industry strategist, Captain Samuel Caulcrik has urged the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), to adopt the investment model of the Dubai International Airport (DXB), to diversify its revenue streams  in order to become self – sustaining.

    The former rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), said FAAN under its present leadership, led by Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, a financial advisory and strategy expert could explore opportunities in power generation.

    Adopting the Dubai Airports’ model , FAAN could generate over 400 megawatts capacity to meet 100 per cent of the Lagos Airport’s electricity needs.

    Besides, Captain Caulcrik said FAAN could explore waste supply business, by putting in place a desalination plant producing over 15 million gallons daily.

    He said the airport authority, could seek revenue opportunities in going into waste disposal business by venturing into recycling and composting of waste management system.

    Caulcrik said :” Dubai International Airport serves as a model for self-sustaining airport cities, showcasing innovative infrastructure, sustainability, and economic growth.

    “FAAN also can replicate such at least in Lagos and Abuja and earn credit through net metering. After all, 70 percent of airport power consumption in both airports is for cooling and refrigeration.

    “The Nigerian Electricity Act permits Net Metering, which allows entities like FAAN to generate their electricity and sell excess power to distribution companies like Ikeja Electric. This arrangement will enable FAAN to offset their energy bills with the electricity they produce, and recover costs.”

    On how the net metering of energy sourcing  will work, Caulcrik said FAAN  would produce electricity through solar panels ,  other renewable sources including combined heat and power new technology.

    He said :” FAAN would use the generated electricity for cooling, refrigeration, and other needs such as suppliers to other businesses within the airports.

    The  surplus electricity would feed into the Ikeja Electric grid or the Abuja grid.

    “FAAN would receive credits or payments for the excess energy sold to Ikeja Electric or Abuja DisCo.”

    Caulcrik said the net metering will reduce energy bills for FAAN, increase renewable energy production, improved grid stability and efficiency as well as boost potential  revenue stream for FAAN.

    “Ikeja Electric and Abuja DisCo have implemented various initiatives to support net metering, including the National Mass Metering Programme. This programme aims to provide meters to customers, enabling them to monitor and manage their energy consumption more effectively.”

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    Investigations reveal that the  Federal Government spends N1 billion monthly on electricity at Lagos airport.

    To reduce the huge cost of keeping the airport running the government is working on adopting eco-friendly practices to eliminate the use of diesel in airport operations.

    Speaking on the development, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo recently disclosed that the government is  investing in solar power systems.

    This, he said will cut the high costs of operating the airports, saving the government 30 per cent of the current monthly electricity costs.

     “We are making cautious and gradual efforts towards embracing eco-friendly practices, which is actually what the world is about now — eco-friendly practices and green technologies in line with ICAO’s long-term global aspirational goal of net-zero carbon emissions in the aviation sector,” Keyamo said.

    He further noted: “They want us to apply, first of all, the type of fuel that does not burn so much, that has low carbon emissions, and that is why we want to gradually eliminate the use of diesel to run our airports.

     “We want to run our airports on solar, and that will save us so much every month. Lagos airport alone, I am told, we spend N1 billion monthly on electricity. That is still something I am trying to crack,” he said

  • As Gateway airport takes aviation industry by storm

    As Gateway airport takes aviation industry by storm

    • By Olaniyi Ajibola

    A celebrated American scholar, author and leading expert in leadership studies, Warren Bennis, in his deep analysis of the integral tenets of good leadership in the context of development and sustainable transformation, posited rather authoritatively: “Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality”.

    Indeed, a leader is indeed a mere dealer if only what he could do is to identify the needs of his people, pronounce it as a matter of information and subsequently stop at that pronouncement without action and steps that could make the dream a significant reality.

    The above analogy absolutely captures sequence of infrastructural development in Ogun State, especially with regards to the Gateway International Agro-cargo Airport that is near completion with world class facilities of rare quality around the country and the West African sub-region.

    It may interest Nigerians to know that the project, conceived and announced by the administration in power in Ogun State around 2006, surprisingly, it stopped at that pronouncement and attendant paper tiger and embarrassing photo-shop until the present administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun came into the saddle.

    In one of the many narratives of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, on the project, the Publicity Secretary of the party in the State, Comrade Tunde Oladunjoye, once described the proposed airport between 2006 and 2019 as nothing but announcement of thick forest as agro-cargo airport, saying the announcement without political will and seriousness to take action was an usual gimmicks and deception that characterised government of those days.

    Said he: “Gbenga Daniel, after announcing construction of an Airport in the year 2006, the area earmarked for the project remained a tick forest till 2019 when Prince Dapo Abiodun came into the saddle. Daniel’s successor, Ibikunle Amosun…did not even open the file of the proposed airport throughout his eight years in office, the same way Daniel abandoned all the projects left behind by his predecessor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba”.

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    Dapo Abiodun, who would never take any issue of development with levity, with a speed of light and in the greatest astonishment of many pessimists and traducers, moved contractors to site and started the construction of Gateway International Agro-cargo Airport in earnest after extensive and comprehensive feasibility studies.

    Interestingly, the project reached almost 98 per cent of completion within 24 months, with the longest runway and apron in the entire West Africa, together with the most sophisticated control tower. An incredible and indelible feat to behold!

    In his recent assessment of the airport, the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila said the Gateway International Agro Cargo and Passenger Airport would soon be the transportation hub for other states in the Southwest.

    Gbajabiamila also applauded Governor Dapo Abiodun for forging ahead with the airport project even when other governors failed in their quest to build a world class airport in their states.

    The former Speaker of the House of Representatives also gave kudos to Abiodun for believing in the airport project, which he said would help improve the economy of Ogun State.

    He added that the airport would help drive the economy of the state, neighbouring states, and the country as a whole, saying that the ease of doing business in the state would also be improved.

    “For Ogun State, this airport has the potential of being a hub for every other state around the Southwest and improving the ease of doing business. You can travel from here. The potential is enormous. You can’t begin to count; it has its ripple effect on the economy.

    “When I was in the National Assembly over the years, I know of several states in the Southwest that tried and struggled to build airports that were nowhere of this size and they were not able to do it. Without taking anything away from them, it is commendations all the way for Governor Dapo Abiodun.

    “I was surprised at what it looks inside. The outside belies the inside and I think the governor has done a good job. He deserves to be commended.

     “I can only describe his administration in one word – transformative, very transformative. We’ve come, we’ve seen, what you see is what you get and each time I come here, I see what his administration is doing, especially in terms of infrastructural development and I give kudos to his Excellency, the governor.”

    Speaking in the same pattern and manner some days ago, regulatory agencies in the aviation industry, while visiting the airport for on-the-spot assessment, commended Prince Dapo Abiodun, for the quality of facilities put in place at the airport and the degree of completion within a short period of time.

    The agencies which comprised the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), unanimously adjudged the airport as world-standard and a source of pride for Ogun State.

    According to the agencies, the critical infrastructure at the airport, which includes the control tower, weather monitoring areas, runway, fire service stations, and the apron, can rival any of its type around the world and remain one of the best in the West African corridor.

    The Senior Project Manager of Craneburg, the construction company handling the project, Nicolas Mfarrej, informed the officials that the airport is about 98% ready to take off fully and begin to serve the interests of the state.

    In the same vein, the consultant on regulatory matters to the Ogun State Governor, Oluwole Adeyileka, explained that the key players in the regulation and monitoring of facilities for full airport operations had come to assess the level of readiness of the state, adding that it was noteworthy that they had been impressed by what the state had put in place at the airport.

    Also speaking, the manager of Gateway International Airport, Captain Dapo Olumide, and the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Ade Akinsanya, said the ongoing assessment is the last hurdle to be crossed before the airport could go on full commercial operations, adding that the assessment given had shown that the state is set to take the lead in air traffic services in the country, describing it as a good outcome of great commitment and dedication to the realization of the dream of an airport that can meet world standards.

    •Ajibola is a Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abiodun on Strategic Communications.