The Federal Executive Council has greenlit an unprecedented N712 billion investment, earmarking it for the comprehensive overhaul and modernization of the International Terminal One at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. This substantial allocation underscores the administration’s commitment to enhancing Nigeria Infrastructure and revitalizing the nation’s critical transport hubs, marking a significant stride in the country’s Economic Development agenda. The decision, a highlight of recent FEC Approvals, aims to elevate the airport’s global standing and operational efficiency.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, detailed the ambitious scope of the project, awarded to the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). The plan involves meticulously stripping down the existing terminal to its structural core, followed by a complete reconstruction incorporating state-of-the-art mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. This thorough Airport Modernization effort is poised to transform the facility into a world-class gateway, reflecting Nigeria’s aspirations in the Aviation Sector.
Beyond Terminal One, the FEC Approvals extend to a significant expansion of Terminal Two, which includes the construction of new aprons, access roads, and bridges. When combined, these Lagos-specific airport works represent a colossal N712.26 billion expenditure, solidifying its position as one of the most substantial single investments in Nigeria’s Aviation Sector in recent history. Such Public Works initiatives are designed to bolster air travel capacity and improve passenger experience significantly.
The council’s foresight wasn’t limited to Lagos alone. Crucial funds, including N46.39 billion, were approved for the rehabilitation of runways and taxiways at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, alongside an upgrade to Category Two (CAT 2) airfield lighting. Similarly, Port Harcourt International Airport is set for a N42.14 billion investment in runway and taxiway rehabilitation and airfield lighting upgrades. Additionally, Lagos’ domestic wing will see N44.13 billion allocated for a CAT 2 LED system upgrade on Runways 18 Left and 36 Right, as well as Taxiways B and C, ensuring enhanced operational safety and efficiency across key airports.
In a strategic pivot towards private sector involvement, the FEC Approvals also included the full business case for the 30-year concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu. This model aims to unlock vast commercial potential from non-aeronautical revenue streams, such as conference centers and shopping malls, which are vital income generators at modern global airports. Minister Keyamo emphasized transparency and labor involvement, affirming that unions have been fully integrated into the concession process, highlighting a collaborative approach to Economic Development and airport management.
Beyond the Aviation Sector, the Federal Executive Council also sanctioned two major electrification projects valued at N213.7 billion, designed to significantly improve energy access in universities, teaching hospitals, and rural communities nationwide. The first project, a N145 billion initiative under the Energising Education Programme (EEP), focuses on engineering, procurement, and construction of power systems. The second, costing N68.7 billion, specifically targets empowering rural dwellers with solar-powered equipment for productive activities, aligning with the administration’s commitment to inclusive growth through sustainable Nigeria Infrastructure development.
Furthermore, billions of Naira were approved for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of numerous highways across the country, showcasing a broad commitment to national Public Works. Major corridor projects receiving funding variations and new approvals include the Abuja Road Lots (N275 billion and N502 billion), Enugu–Onitsha Road (N150 billion), and Abuja–Kano Road (N220 billion). These extensive road networks are crucial for facilitating trade, improving connectivity, and driving regional Economic Development.
Additional critical road project approvals highlight the administration’s expansive vision for Nigeria Infrastructure. Notable variations include the Biu–Numa Road in Borno/Adamawa, revised to N61.76 billion, and the dualization of Maraba–Keffi Road in Nasarawa at N76 billion. The ambitious Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway alone received a combined N2.83 trillion across its Kebbi and Sokoto sections, underscoring a massive scale of investment in transforming the nation’s transportation backbone and supporting sustained Economic Development.
The FEC Approvals also extended to the health sector, with a significant upgrade approved for the Oncology Centre at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. This initiative, part of a broader agenda to revolutionize cancer care and health infrastructure, signifies a strong push towards improved public health outcomes. Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, indicated that additional cancer centers are planned for Lagos and Zaria, complementing ongoing major project commissions at the newly inaugurated University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, one of West Africa’s largest medical facilities.
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