Controversy Surrounds Keyamo’s Ambitious International Airports Overhaul Plan

The aviation industry in Nigeria is buzzing with mixed opinions following the recent announcement by Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, regarding a comprehensive master plan for the renovation and upgrade of five international airports across the country. The proposal has ignited a debate within the industry, with stakeholders expressing contrasting viewpoints on the best approach for executing this ambitious project.

Key among the arguments is whether to enlist the expertise of foreign professionals to craft a globally marketable blueprint for the airports or to engage domestic contractors for the task. The divergent opinions highlight the complexity of the challenge facing Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.

Minister Keyamo, who received a report last week from the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Task Force on the relocation of foreign airlines from the old Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) to the new terminal, emphasized the urgent need for the overhaul of the old MMIA terminal. He explained, “Having a Master plan will eradicate wastage and encourage concessionaires, making the airports a hub indeed. The Master plan will take into consideration the existing structures while renovation of the old terminal will not be disrupted.”

Industry experts argue that outsourcing the master plan is imperative. Fortune Idu, Chief Executive Officer of FCI International Limited, emphasized the long-overdue nature of the airport master plan, noting that it should not be seen as a mere contract supply project but as an intellectual documentation of the present and future ambitions of the airports. He stressed the need for a design-built approach to airport development, emphasizing the importance of international expertise from organizations like Munich Airport in Germany and guidance from Airport Council International (ACI) to create a globally marketable document for the airports.

However, some voices within the industry disagree with the idea of seeking foreign expertise. Shadrach Ubah, Assistant National Secretary of the Society of Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers of Nigeria (SLAMEN), argued that Nigeria possesses the necessary talent and resources to undertake the project without foreign assistance. He called for trust in domestic expertise and expressed concern about the pervasive issue of corruption.

Alex Nwuba, President of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Nigeria (AOPAN), believes that addressing the industry’s fundamentals and establishing a clear long-term vision for Nigerian aviation are prerequisites to any successful airport design. He emphasized the importance of defining the philosophy of Nigerian aviation and creating a comprehensive industry plan before engaging in design and construction activities.

As the debate rages on, the Nigerian aviation industry faces critical decisions that will impact its future. Whether it chooses to leverage foreign expertise or rely on local talent, the overhaul of these international airports remains a pressing concern for both the government and the aviation community. The nation watches with anticipation to see how this ambitious project will unfold.