The Fire that precipitates compulsory relocation to the Chinese-built MMIA 2nd terminal, Ikeja, Lagos
Barr. Festus Keyamo, Aviation, and Aerospace Development Minister, has constituted a five (5) member task force to oversee the execution of the relocation order to the international airlines and ensure minimum or zero disruptions to their operations.
A media statement from the aviation ministry, ostensibly to demonstrate commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, PBAT, said the task force has been saddled with three major tasks in making the transition by the airlines seamless, while the concern of the minister was expressed without equivocation.
According to the media statement signed by Oluseyi Odutayo,
Head, Press and Public Affairs of the aviation ministry, the five-man task force is mandated to give adequate attention to all the concerns raised by passengers.
The first of the three points terms of reference for the task force is ensuring passenger facilitation without hassles;
“Resolve Passenger Concerns: The task force will 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”.
The second of the task force terms of reference is to;
“Minimize Discomfort: Our focus dwells on minimizing any form of discomfort during this transition period. Efforts will be made to streamline processes at both terminals while closely monitoring operations 24/7. Measures such as enhanced signage, dedicated support staff, and improved communication channels will be implemented proactively”.
While the third is;
“Effective Public Communication: We pledge transparency throughout this process by providing regular updates on progress made in addressing concerns arising from airline relocations”.
Members of the task force saddled with delivery on the above assigned tasks are;
Engr. Hassan Musa, Permanent Secretary (Rtd.), and a former Director of Air Transport Management, Federal Ministry of Aviation; Team Leader.
Mr. Adebayo Oladipo, General Manager, Aerodrome, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, member
Mr. Collins Mukoro, S.A. to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, member.
Mrs. Uyoyou Edhekpo, S.A. to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, member, and;
Mr. Henry Agbebire, S.A. to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, member.
The statement reiterated that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, will continue to improve public relations strategies through various channels including online platforms and customer service helplines so that the passengers and the general public can stay informed first-hand, about developments.
The Minister, however, extends his deepest regrets over the inconvenience caused and assured all travelers of the government’s genuine concern and determination to end the current phase in record time.
Keyamo also pledged on behalf of the federal government, and in consonance with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to ensure without wavering, the ministry’s, and FAAN’s commitment to passengers’ comfort, safety, and overall satisfaction during this transitional period.
Recall a public explanation on Thursday, 7th September by FAAN, “The expedited relocation to the New International Terminal at MMIA was deemed necessary due to the unfortunate fire incident that occurred at the International Terminal 1”.
FAAN reiterated that “the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, “during his maiden visit to Lagos airport had directed FAAN to relocate airlines to the New International Terminal for the shutdown of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Terminal 1, by 1st October 2023, with a view to improving passenger experience and for total overhaul of the terminal.
Approaching the ensuing challenge with all seriousness it deserves, FAAN in the statement also pledged, “We intend to make this movement as seamless as possible but appeal to all travelers to please be at the airport early enough to complete their check-in formalities on time in order not to miss their flights”.
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