Airport Relocation: Minister Sets Up Task Force To Ease Move

In other to ease the pains currently experienced by foreign passengers and airlines due to relocation from the old terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), to the newly built International Terminal, the minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has set up a task force to resolve the relocation challenges within the shortest possible period.

LEADERSHIP reports that the minister had on August 31, 2023, given a deadline of October, 1 2023 for all foreign airlines to relocate from the old terminal to the newly built Chinese terminal, but the management of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), had to fast track the implementation of the Minister’s directive in response to the recent fire outbreak which raised safety concerns and affected passengers’ movements.

However, in a press statement, the ministry said the objective of the task force were to resolve passengers concerns and minimize discomfort.

Odutayo stated that the Aviation Minister extends his regrets over the inconvenience caused and assures all travelers that the ministry was fully committed to resolving the concerns promptly. 

“The minister, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, is concerned about the teething problems of relocating the international airlines to the new Terminal which was necessitated by the recent fire outbreak at the Old International Terminal in Lagos, and he sets up a task force to resolve these challenges within the shortest possible period. 

“The members of the task force are retired Permanent Secretary and ex-Dir of Dept. of Air Transport Management, Engineer Hassan Musa; general manager Aerodrome, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Adebayo Oladipo; Special Adviser to the minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Collins Mukoro; SA to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mrs. Uyoyou Edhekpo and SA to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Henry Agbebire.

“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 primary objective of this task force is to resolve passenger concerns and work diligently towards resolving all concerns raised by passengers regarding congestion, discomfort, and related issues stemming from terminal relocation. We are committed to ensuring that every passenger’s voice is heard and addressed promptly.”

“Minimise Discomfort: Our focus dwells on minimising any form of discomfort during this transition period. Efforts will be made in streamlining processes at both terminals while closely monitoring operations 24/7. Measures such as enhanced signage, dedicated support staff, improved communication channels will be implemented proactively.”

“Effective Public Communication: We pledge transparency throughout this process by providing regular updates on progress made in addressing concerns arising from airline relocations. FAAN aims at improving public relations strategies through various channels including online platforms and customer service helplines so that you stay informed about developments firsthand.

“In conclusion, the minister extends his deepest regrets once again over the inconvenience caused and assures all travelers that we are fully committed to resolving these concerns promptly. We pledge our commitment to passenger comfort, safety, and overall satisfaction during this transitional period.”