The Federal Government has announced plans to extend the Lagos Red Line rail network directly to the domestic and international terminals of Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA) in a move expected to reduce traffic congestion and improve access to Nigeria's busiest aviation hub.
Rail extension details
Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo disclosed the plan on Monday during the Invest Lagos 3.0 forum. He stated that discussions are ongoing with the Lagos State Government to extend the rail line from Ikeja Bus Stop into the airport complex. The proposed route will connect the existing rail corridor to the General Aviation Terminal (GAT), continue through the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2) operated by Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, and eventually reach the international terminal.
Expected benefits
Once completed, passengers will have a direct rail option to access the airport, reducing dependence on road transport and easing congestion along major routes. The project is part of broader efforts to modernize airport infrastructure and position Lagos as a leading aviation and logistics hub in Africa.
Lagos handles majority of air traffic
Keyamo noted that Lagos accounts for about 67% of Nigeria's total air passenger traffic, making it the country's most important aviation gateway. He emphasized Lagos' strategic location, being approximately six hours from major global markets including South America, Southern Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
$500 million airport upgrade
The Federal Government is investing around $500 million in the reconstruction and modernization of the aging international terminal at MMA, which will be completed over the next 22 months. The upgrade aims to improve passenger experience, increase capacity, and support future growth in both passenger and cargo traffic.
Additional developments
Nigeria now has seven international airports following the addition of Victor Attah International Airport in Akwa Ibom State and Maiduguri International Airport in Borno State. Keyamo also highlighted the resolution of the long-running dispute between the Federal Government and Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited as evidence of efforts to create a more investor-friendly environment.
Industry analysts believe that improved infrastructure could help Lagos attract more international airlines, cargo operations, and transit passengers, strengthening its position as a major aviation hub in Africa.
