Lagos airport runway: We’ll extend 90-day deadline if need arises – FAAN

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has said the ongoing work on the 2.7-km long 18L/36R of the Murtala Muhammed domestic runway is 90 percent complete but the 90-day deadline will be extended if the need arises.

Managing Director of FAAN, Capt. Rabiu Yadudu, who spoke while inspecting the runway, said the authority is poised to meet the deadline for the completion of the runway.

FAAN had on July 8, 2022 shut down the runway to complete the installation of CAT III Airfield Ground Lighting system on Runway 18L/36R for 90 days.

At the moment, both the domestic and international flights are routed through the international runway.

Yadudu said, “So far, I think we have done about 90%. We are on schedule and remember we are very optimistic but if anything would make it to be delayed, I would boldly make it delayed. I’d rather have a good job concluded, safely. Aviation is not about quick fixes, it’s about long term fixes.

“For 12 years, this has not worked but now you’re getting it in a few hours, what is the problem? The bottom line is we are on target up to this moment but anything that will hinder and we are sure has to do with the safety, we will not hesitate, that is our primary responsibility but so far there is none. And we are committed, this is my 10th visit and there are people here daily, monitoring, supervising.”