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FAAN defends N712bn Lagos Airport rehabilitation, says facility 50 years old

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The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, has declared that Terminal One of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Lagos, has become obsolete and has clearly outlived its intended lifespan.

Speaking during a television interview, Kuku revealed that the terminal, constructed nearly five decades ago, has not undergone any major rehabilitation since it was built.

She noted that, unlike other countries that regularly upgrade their aviation infrastructure, Nigeria has allowed the facility to remain in its original state for 50 years.

She criticised those opposing the Federal Executive Council’s, FEC, recent approval of N712.24 billion for the airport’s comprehensive rehabilitation, describing their stance as contradictory.

“You can’t keep saying the airports are in shambles and, when it’s time to fix them, start opposing the investment.

“This airport was built almost 50 years ago with no major upgrades. Globally, airports are improved continuously, they don’t wait half a century to act. So, the question is: do we fix it now or keep postponing?” Kuku said.

The FAAN boss stressed that the project was subjected to a rigorous procurement process, including review by the Bureau of Public Procurement, BPP, and ratification by the FEC, with all relevant data and documents publicly available.

“Do you think a project of this scale would be approved without a full tender process? Certainly not. Under my leadership, due process was strictly followed. It went through BPP, then the Federal Executive Council, and all information is accessible to the public,” she stated.

Kuku assured Nigerians of FAAN’s commitment to transparency and accountability, promising that procurement documents and project milestones would be made available for public scrutiny.

“We work for the public, and we have a duty to justify every naira spent. If you’re going to invest that much, the public deserves full disclosure,” she added.

According to her, the rehabilitation plan goes beyond surface renovation. It will involve a total overhaul of Terminal One, modernisation of existing facilities, expansion of the apron, and the construction of a new transit terminal.

She pointed out that Nigeria currently lacks a functioning transit system, which limits its ability to attract connecting passengers.

“Right now, there’s no single transit operation within Nigerian airports. If we want to boost passenger numbers, transit passengers are critical, but that’s impossible without the right infrastructure,” she explained.

The upgrade will also address structural limitations at Terminal Two, where wide-bodied aircraft currently face operational difficulties. Plans include expanding the finger section, redesigning passenger flow systems, and developing new road networks.

Kuku added that rerouting check-in procedures and scheduling changes are already underway in partnership with airlines to ease congestion during the upgrade period.

She emphasised that the project aims to position Nigeria’s aviation sector for global competitiveness, not just rebuild infrastructure.

“Our airports are the country’s front door. For first-time visitors, investors, and business travelers, their first impression of Nigeria is through our airports.

“This upgrade is about ensuring that experience matches our national image and ambitions,” she added.

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ISWAP Terrorists Ambush Army Convoy, Reportedly Abduct Commander, K!ll Soldiers

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Suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants have reportedly ambushed a Nigerian military convoy, k!lling several soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in northeastern Nigeria.

HumAngle reports that the insurgents reportedly abducted a serving Brigade Commander along with other military personnel.

The insurgents were said to be armed and highly organised, targeting the convoy in what appears to be a coordinated strike, leaving a trail of casualties and panic in the region.

If confirmed, this would mark the first time an extremist group in Nigeria has successfully captured a serving General directly from the frontline.

The Nigerian Army has yet to release an official statement on the attack or confirm the fate of the abducted officer at the time of filing this report.

Recall that Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, had recently condemned the renewed wave of terrorist attacks in parts of his constituency, describing the situation as “deeply worrisome” and unacceptable.

The lawmaker, in a statement on Thursday, said four farmers were gruesomely murdered by Boko Haram insurgents while working on their farmlands in Kwam village, near the Dille community in Askira-Uba Local Government Area.

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Obiano breaks silence amid rumours of death

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A former governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano, has said he is alive and in good health.

Obiano took to his Facebook page to debunk rumours about his death that circulated on social media on Friday.

The statement read: “My beloved Ndi Anambra, friends, and well-wishers, I woke to hear of a rumor making the rounds about my wellbeing.

“Let me assure you personally: I am alive, hale, hearty, and in excellent health. By the special grace of God, I am doing very well.

“It is unfortunate that some individuals still find joy in spreading falsehood simply for reasons yet to be established. But we will continue to rise above such mischief.

“To everyone who reached out with calls, messages, and prayers, I sincerely appreciate your concern. Your love and goodwill mean more than words can express.

“Please disregard the rumour entirely. We remain focused, grateful, and guided by God’s grace. Daalu nu, and may God bless you all.”

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NIGERIAN BREWERIES CONSIDERS REOPENING IMO PRODUCTION PLANT AS NEW CASSAVA PROJECT TAKES OFF.

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By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
14- NOV- 2025

Nigerian Breweries Plc has indicated interest in reviving its long-abandoned brewery facility in Awo-Omamma, Imo State, following renewed economic activities sparked by the commissioning of a new cassava processing plant in the community.

During the official handover of the two-ton-per-day processing facility, the Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Thibaut Boidin, highlighted the company’s long-term vision for the area. He explained that the newly delivered cassava plant—constructed and donated by the company—was part of a broader corporate social responsibility initiative aimed at stimulating local productivity, creating jobs, and strengthening community livelihoods. According to him, the project has the potential to generate over ₦500 million annually while positioning Awo-Omamma as a rising centre for cassava-based enterprise.

Boidin expressed confidence in the increasing socio-economic stability of Imo State, noting that sustained progress could pave the way for fresh capital inflows, refurbishment of the dormant brewery, and eventual resumption of production of popular beverage brands—bringing back employment and commercial vibrancy to the area.

Reacting to the development, the Imo State Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, and Investment, Barrister Rex Anunobi, commended Nigerian Breweries for its commitment to community development. He reiterated the state government’s readiness to partner with the company to resolve previous challenges that hindered the brewery’s operations. Anunobi also outlined ongoing reforms—including improved road access, friendlier business policies, and reduced tax burdens—designed to attract investors and strengthen the state’s industrial base.

He reaffirmed that Imo State remains open for business and encouraged Nigerian Breweries to take advantage of the evolving investment climate to fully restore brewery operations in Awo-Omamma.

 

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