The directive by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to relocate airlines from Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, to the new terminal has caused concerns and confusion among passengers, particularly international students.
Keyamo’s directive required all airlines to relocate from the airport by October 1, 2023. However, the Federal Aviation Authority of Nigeria forcefully relocated international carriers to the new facility ahead of this deadline.
Passengers, especially international students who rely on frequent flights to their home countries, have expressed their worries about potential disruptions and inconveniences this relocation may cause. Many have already booked flights well in advance and fear that these changes could lead to missed connections and increased travel time.
Passengers have criticized the short notice period for the relocation and the lack of proper planning, which has left them uncertain about alternative arrangements and potential difficulties in rescheduling flights. Some have suggested that the government should have adopted a more gradual approach to the relocation to allow for a smoother transition.
Meanwhile, the President of the Association of Foreign Airlines and Representatives in Nigeria, Dr. Kingsley Nwokoma, has expressed concerns about the capacity of Terminal Two to accommodate all foreign airlines and stakeholders effectively. He pointed out that the relocation has disrupted network punctuality, leading to financial losses for airlines and potential lawsuits from disgruntled passengers.
The relocation may also affect international students who are slated to resume their studies, as delays and disruptions in their travel plans could pose significant problems, potentially complicating matters with their respective institutions.
While the government’s intention may be to improve airport facilities, the abrupt relocation has raised questions about the planning and execution of such decisions and their impact on passengers and airlines. Passengers are urging authorities to provide better planning, communication, and contingency measures to minimize disruptions during such transitions.