The Federal Government has announced its Plan to Demolish two Multibillion-naira Private Jet Terminals and Aircraft Hangars to facilitate the Expansion of the recently Inaugurated International Terminal at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, revealed this During an Inspection of the Facilities at the Lagos Airport.
He explained that the Private Jet Terminals were Obstructing the Expansion of the Apron size of the new Chinese-built terminal, which opened in March 2022.
Keyamo emphasized the Importance of Providing a better Travel experience for Nigerian Passengers using the Airport. As a result, the old International Terminal will be closed by October 1, and more than 25 Foreign Airlines currently Operating there will be Relocated to the New Terminal.
He stated, “We have to find a way to use the New Terminal.
Like in many other Countries, we have to get Emergency procurement to buy big Buses and move Passengers to where the big Planes can stop for both Arrivals and Departures so that Nigerians can have some form of Comfort.”
Keyamo also mentioned the Long-term plan to Build Avio bridges for large Aircraft.
However, to implement this Plan, some Private Hangars will need to be relocated for Public purposes.
This decision follows concerns raised by the Former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, who pointed out that the Private Jet Terminals were hindering the efficient use of the International Wing of the Airport.
While the Government’s plan to Demolish the Private Jet Terminals has faced previous Delays due to Litigation concerns and other issues, the current Minister, Festus Keyamo, is determined to Proceed with the Expansion for the benefit of Nigerian Travelers.
