The Federal Government’s proposal to demolish and reconstruct the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) terminal has sparked intense debate among aviation professionals, with experts sharply divided on the merits of the plan.
The Case for Demolition
Proponents argue the 46-year-old facility is obsolete and requires complete modernization:
- Dr. Alex Nwuba (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association): Supports demolition, stating past renovations have been superficial “plastering” of deeper structural issues
- Minister Festus Keyamo: Highlights the terminal’s gross inadequacy, noting its 200,000-passenger design now handles 3 million annually
- Capacity Argument: Proposed new terminal would increase capacity to 20 million passengers yearly
Opposition Views
Critics question the demolition approach, suggesting alternatives:
- Group Capt. John Ojikutu (rtd.): Advocates completing the original masterplan’s four terminals rather than demolishing existing ones
- Capt. Mohammed Badamasi: Points to Amsterdam Schiphol’s model of progressive expansion without demolition
- Cost Concerns: Experts demand transparency on demolition/rebuild costs and funding sources
Middle Ground Proposals
Some professionals suggest hybrid solutions:
- Amos Akpan (Flight and Logistics MD): Any redesign must position MMIA as a West African hub
- PPP Model: Several experts recommend private sector participation through concessions
- Phased Approach: Gradual expansion while maintaining operations, similar to Toronto Pearson’s development
Historical Context
The debate reveals deeper systemic issues:
- Abandonment of the 2000 Privatisation Act for airports
- Frequent changes to the MMIA masterplan
- Questions about long-term infrastructure planning in Nigeria’s aviation sector
Government Position
Minister Keyamo maintains that incremental upgrades cannot address fundamental limitations of the aging terminal, emphasizing President Tinubu’s commitment to world-class facilities. Full project details are expected in coming weeks.
Bolbuk Analysis: The controversy reflects broader tensions between urgent modernization needs and sustainable infrastructure development strategies in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Source: Aviation industry stakeholders
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Next: In-depth cost-benefit analysis of terminal demolition versus phased renovation approaches in global aviation.