The Federal Government has proposed a total of N33,906,953,400 for the rehabilitation and upgrade of airports across Nigeria in the 2026 fiscal year, according to the budget documents. The allocation targets runways, aprons, terminals, perimeter fencing, and safety-critical systems to enhance passenger experience and aviation safety.
Major projects include sealing cracks on runways, aprons, and taxiways at Lagos, Kano, and Port Harcourt airports, pegged at N800 million, and installing airfield lighting at Ilorin Airport for another N800 million. Terminal expansions and renovations are also planned, including Katsina Airport (N175 million), Calabar Airport (N200 million), Maiduguri Airport apron expansion (N800 million), and the General Aviation Terminal apron at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (N1 billion).
Perimeter security is a key focus, with fencing and access roads at Ajaka/Okuta Airstrip (N350 million), Ilorin Airport (N325 million), Maiduguri Airport (N200 million), and Sam Mbakwe Airport (N50 million). Several airstrips, including Hadejia (N560 million), Osubi (N2 billion), Ibru-Edo and Uli-Okija (N70 million each), as well as Abeokuta (N35 million) and Umuahia (N800 million), will also be rehabilitated.
The budget earmarks N5 billion for safety and security-critical projects and airport certification nationwide, while N400 million is set aside for monitoring and evaluation of aviation projects. Instrument landing system upgrades, passenger facilities, power improvements, baggage handling systems, rescue and fire service buildings, and staff clinics are also included.
Most of the projects are ongoing, forming part of a broader multi-year plan to modernise Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, improve safety standards, and provide a better experience for passengers.
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