(DDM) – Nigeria’s busiest aviation hub will soon face a major operational shakeup as authorities plan a long-term terminal closure.
DDM gathered that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria will shut Terminal 1 of Murtala Muhammed International Airport from March 2026.
The agency says the shutdown will last about 22 months to allow large-scale rehabilitation and expansion.
Officials describe the project as one of the most ambitious upgrades ever attempted at the Lagos airport.
They argue that aging infrastructure now requires urgent modernization to meet global standards.
The airport handles millions of passengers yearly as Nigeria’s primary international gateway.
Many travelers already complain about congestion, outdated facilities, and slow processing times.
FAAN believes the renovation will ultimately ease these long-standing concerns.
Authorities have prepared a temporary international departure hall to reduce disruption.
The temporary structure reportedly covers about 8,000 square metres.
Managers say the facility is near completion ahead of the March rollout.
The stopgap terminal will initially serve five to six international airlines.
Other airlines may join as operations stabilize.
Passengers will need to arrive earlier to complete check-in and security procedures.
Airlines will issue updated guidance to travelers before the transition begins.
International arrivals will continue through other functional sections of the airport.
Cargo operations will also remain active in designated areas.
Engineers plan to build a modern skywalk linking Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
Designers say the connection will improve passenger movement between terminals.
Road networks around the airport will also receive upgrades.
Contractors will expand apron space for wide-body aircraft parking.
Aviation analysts say Nigeria must upgrade airports to compete with regional hubs.
Some travelers fear the closure could still trigger delays and confusion.
Critics question whether the timeline will hold given past project delays.
Supporters argue the sacrifice will deliver long-term benefits.
They cite improved safety, comfort, and higher passenger capacity.
The Lagos airport has undergone multiple upgrades since its 1979 commissioning.
Traffic growth has outpaced infrastructure expansion for decades.
Meanwhile, separate tragedy struck on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
Road safety officials confirmed a fatal crash near Foursquare Camp.
Authorities recorded six deaths and 23 injuries from the incident.
The Federal Road Safety Corps blamed fatigue and speeding.
Safety officers continue to warn drivers against reckless highway behavior.
Transport experts say both aviation and road sectors need stricter safety enforcement.
Many Nigerians now debate whether infrastructure growth matches population demand.
The coming airport closure has therefore sparked both hope and controversy nationwide.
