MMA2 celebrates 17th Anniversary with vision for regional expansion, infrastructure growth
Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, operator of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2) has marked its 17th Anniversary with a refined vision for infrastructure growth and regional expansion.
Speaking during the momentous celebration that took place yesterday – May 6, 2024 – at the terminal car park, Mr. Remi Jibodu, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the terminal, reflected on the terminal’s remarkable journey of excellence, innovation, and efficiency that makes it stand out as the best in the Nigerian aviation industry.
Jibodu highlighted the airport’s evolution into a symbol of excellence over the past 17 years.
Central to this evolution, according to Jibodu, is the resounding success of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, which has enhanced its operational efficiency and fostered collaboration with private entities, ultimately delivering world-class services to passengers and stakeholders.
Jibodu also acknowledged the vital contributions of stakeholders and airlines, emphasising the significant growth in the number of domestic airlines operating from MMA2 over the years.
He said the airport now hosts ten domestic airlines daily, facilitating seamless travel experiences for over ten thousand guests.
He said, “Permit me to quickly highlight the contributions of our stakeholders who have been with us from the very beginning. Notably among them is the first airline that departed its aircraft from our runway, Chanchangi Airline Flight NCH 334, with aircraft registration number 5N BEU, which lifted 70 passengers and departed at exactly 17:15 on May 7, 2007. This opened the skies for numerous departures from our terminal.
“Today, we currently have a total of 10 domestic airlines flying out of our terminal daily: Ibom Air, Valuejet, Air Peace, Arik Air, Aero Contractors, Dana Air, United Nigeria Airlines, Azman Air, Max Air, and Rano Air.
“We are immensely grateful for the partnerships we share with them.
We play host to over ten thousand guests every day at this terminal, including passengers, stakeholders, concessionaires, and many others who come here to shop, eat, and fly.”
Furthermore, Jibodu outlined the airport’s commitment to continuous improvement, evidenced by the introduction of state-of-the-art infrastructure such as a multi-story car park and e-gates for passenger facilitation.
He also mentioned the implementation of uninterrupted power supply systems in the terminal, which has ensured operational resilience.
He disclosed that the company has developed flight disruption guidelines that have minimised passenger unrest, ensuring their safety and comfort.
Highlighting MMA2’s numerous accolades and awards, including “Best Airport Terminal of the Year 2023,” Jibodu attributed this success to the collective effort and dedication of staff, partners, and stakeholders.
A standout achievement mentioned was the MMA2 Training Center, which symbolises the airport’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals through state-of-the-art facilities and hands-on training.
Jibodu outlined ambitious plans for further expansion, improved technology for security enhancement, sustainable initiatives for cargo ecosystem expansion, and the commencement of regional operations from the terminal.
This expansion, according to him, is expected to create new revenue opportunities and drive economic growth, benefiting all stakeholders involved.
“Looking ahead, we are poised to embark on an exciting journey toward continued growth and innovation. Our plans include further expansion of our terminal facilities, implementation of improved technology to enhance security, sustainable initiatives to expand our cargo ecosystem, and the commencement of regional operations from our terminal.
“The launch of regional operations, considering our track record of continuous growth and excellence, will provide a single hub for domestic airlines, boost their revenue through transit flights, drive economic growth by creating more jobs, and enhance connectivity.
“This expansion will open new revenue opportunities, benefiting all stakeholders involved. The economic ripple effects will be felt far and wide, from increased foot traffic in our terminal to enhanced commercial opportunities,” Jibodu affirmed.
Jibodu expressed gratitude for the past achievements while envisioning a future filled with limitless possibilities for MMA2 and the aviation industry as a whole.
The Acting CEO conducted a facility tour of the terminal with aviation correspondents to show key developmental projects and how it has transformed over the years.
