Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, 2023 Ogun State governorship candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and renowned advocate for good governance has expressed dismay over the state of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos state.
Ajadi who was en-route to Singapore Saturday morning, described the situation as “a national embarrassment.”
The situation according to him left travelers at the terminal sweating and visibly distressed due to poor ventilation, non-functional air conditioners, and a lack of fans causing discomfort for both local and international passengers.
Speaking to journalists before his departure, Ambassador Ajadi lamented the poor level of infrastructure at Nigeria’s busiest international airport and called on the federal government and Ministry of Aviation to urgently address the situation.
“This airport is supposed to be a symbol of our national pride and a gateway into the heart of Nigeria, yet what I experienced today is not only disappointing but shameful. The lack of air conditioning, no working fans, and poor treatment of passengers is unacceptable—especially for a country seeking foreign investment and global recognition.”
He also noted that the terminal was overcrowded, with no functioning ventilation systems, leaving passengers drenched in sweat and visibly frustrated.
Ajadi further highlighted that the travelator—a moving walkway that helps transport passengers through the terminal—is not functioning. He also pointed out that the baggage carousel, where passengers collect their checked luggage, was emitting an abnormal and disturbing noise, raising concerns over maintenance and safety standards.
“The experience visitors have at our international airport shapes their perception of the entire country—socially, economically, and politically. If this is what they meet at the entry point, what impression are we giving the world?”
Ajadi stressed that an airport is more than a transit hub—it is a national mirror that reflects the country’s priorities, influences investor confidence, and affects tourism and international diplomacy.
Ambassador Ajadi also alleged unprofessional conduct by some airport staff, citing impolite treatment, poor coordination, and a lack of assistance to travellers, which further dents the reputation of the airport.
He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the current Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo SAN, to prioritize airport renovation as a matter of national pride and economic urgency.
“Nigeria deserves better. Our airports should reflect the hopes and aspirations of our people—not remind us of decades of infrastructural decay. The federal government must act now—this is beyond politics; it is about national dignity,” Ajadi stated.
