Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has issued a directive mandating all international airlines to vacate the premises of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) by October 1, 2023. The minister stated that this measure is imperative to facilitate comprehensive maintenance work at the airport.

During an inspection tour of the international airport in Lagos, Festus Keyamo, accompanied by Mr. Kabir Yusuf Mohammed from the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), disclosed this directive. On the sidelines of the airport tour, the minister urged airlines and companies currently operating within the premises to transition to the new terminal, specifically MMIA Terminal 2.

Keyamo further announced the suspension of all contracts, projects, and concessions within the aviation sector until further notice. He emphasized, "All airlines should vacate the MMIA before October 1 and relocate to MMIA Terminal 2." This directive aims to ensure the smooth execution of necessary maintenance activities while minimizing disruptions for travelers and operators alike.