The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has officially confirmed that Terminal 1 at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos will be completely shut down starting in March 2026 to allow for comprehensive rehabilitation and expansion works.
The closure, expected to last approximately 22 months, marks the most significant upgrade to the nearly 48-year-old terminal since it first opened.
FAAN plans to demolish non-structural elements, reinforce the building core, and install modern mechanical, electrical, plumbing, security screening, baggage handling, and passenger processing systems to bring the facility up to contemporary international standards.
The decision follows years of incremental repairs that have struggled to keep pace with growing passenger numbers and ageing infrastructure.
FAAN highlighted that the upcoming project represents a permanent solution rather than continued short-term fixes.
A key mitigation measure is the near-completion of a new temporary departure terminal covering roughly 8,000 square metres.
Construction is reported to be over 90% finished, with handover and operational testing expected in the coming weeks. Once active, this interim facility will handle all departing international and domestic passengers, ensuring that MMIA remains fully functional for flight operations during the main terminal’s closure.
Arrivals will continue to use existing infrastructure, and cargo handling at the airport will remain unaffected throughout the project.
FAAN Managing Director Olubunmi Kuku described the upgrade as “long overdue and unavoidable,” assuring passengers that every effort is being made to maintain comfort, safety, and efficient travel.
The authority has stressed that the works are being carefully phased to prevent any complete airport shutdown.Travelers are advised to monitor official FAAN announcements, arrive earlier than usual once the changes begin, and pay close attention to updated signage and boarding instructions.
The Terminal 1 project forms part of a wider federal programme of airport modernisation that received major contract approvals in 2025.
Passengers with upcoming travel through Lagos MMIA in March and beyond should check with their airlines for the latest operational guidance.
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