Nigerian Airports Need Urgent Runway Overhaul to Prevent Accidents, Experts Warn

Aviation industry stakeholders are calling for immediate rehabilitation of several airport runways across Nigeria, citing the recurring runway excursion incidents that occur during the rainy season. They warn that continued neglect could lead to catastrophic accidents. In the past five years, significant incidents have been recorded at airports in Ibadan, Port Harcourt, Lagos, and Enugu. The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, confirmed last year that over 17 airport runways have surpassed their 20-25 year design lifespan and are in urgent need of repair. Many of these runways were constructed 30 to 35 years ago and have deteriorated significantly under heavy aircraft traffic, necessitating complete reconstruction rather than temporary fixes. Kuku noted that a comprehensive capital plan of approximately N580 billion is required for these upgrades, which include runway reconstruction, taxiway modernization, airfield lighting enhancements, and apron expansions. She previously oversaw the rehabilitation of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport's international runway in Lagos, which reopened in 2024. Recently, the Minister of Aviation announced an allocation of N46 billion for the reconstruction of primary and secondary runways at the Mallam Aminu International Airport in Kano. Runways in Port Harcourt, the domestic runway in Lagos, and the Benin Airport runway are also identified as needing rehabilitation to prevent runway excursions caused by aquaplaning. Logistics management specialist Nuhu Adam corroborated that many runways are obsolete due to not being built for current traffic volumes and climate intensity. He pointed out that heavy rains expose underlying issues like poor drainage, friction loss from rubber deposits, and outdated electrical systems, noting that most runways have not had major repairs in over 30 years, exceeding their typical 25-30 year lifespan even with regular maintenance.

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Over 17 airport runways across Nigeria had exceeded their 20 to 25-year design lifespan and required urgent rehabilitation.