Foreign Airlines Relocation: Fed Govt Raises Task Force to Address Congestion

The Federal Government has set up a task force to address passengers’ congestion, discomfort and other complaints caused by the relocation of international airlines to the new terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) at Ikeja in Lagos.

Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister Festus Keyamo, who announced this at the weekend, expressed government’s concern about the problems and its determination to resolve the challenges within the shortest period.

The minster noted that though the relocation of international airlines was hurried due to the recent fire that occurred at the basement of the old international airport terminal, which raised safety concerns that affected passengers’ movement, the task force would resolve all the concerns raised by passengers on congestion, discomfort and other related issues that stemmed from the terminal relocation.

Keyamo said the task force would ensure that passenger’s voices were heard and their complaints addressed promptly.

He said: “We urge all passengers and other stakeholders to be patient and bear with us as the inconvenience caused will soon be resolved. Your understanding plays a vital role in making this transition smoother for everyone involved.

“The task force will ensure it minimises any form of discomfort during this transition period. Efforts will be made in streamlining processes at both terminals while closely monitoring operations around the clock. Measures, such as enhanced signage, dedicated support staff, and improved communication channels, will be implemented proactively.

“There will be effective public communication. We pledge transparency throughout this process by providing regular updates on the progress made in addressing concerns arising from airlines’ relocations.

“We pledge our commitment to passenger comfort, safety, and overall satisfaction during this transitional period.”

To lead the task force, the government selected Hassan Musa, a retired permanent secretary and former director of the Department of Air Transport Management; Adebayo Oladipo, the general manager for Aerodrome at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA); Mr. Collins Mukoro, a special assistant to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development; Mrs. Uyoyou Edhekpo, also a special assistant to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development; and Mr. Henry Agbebire, another special assistant to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.

During his inspection of the Lagos Airport last week, the minister gave a deadline of October 1, 2023 for the relocation.