The Federal Government has approved N46 billion for the comprehensive rehabilitation of the primary and secondary runways at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), as part of a broader programme to modernise one of Nigeria’s busiest aviation gateways and strengthen its role as the commercial hub of Northern Nigeria.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the approval during the commissioning of the newly remodelled Dan Kabo Domestic Terminal at the airport, revealing that about 60 per cent of the contract sum has already been paid to the contractor, who has mobilised to the project site.
Keyamo described the runway rehabilitation as a strategic investment aligned with the Ministry’s Five-Point Agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that sustained investment in airport infrastructure is laying the foundation for a more efficient, competitive and globally connected aviation industry.
The minister also commended President Tinubu for his continued support for the sector, saying the government remains committed to upgrading critical airport infrastructure across the country.
The runway project comes as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) commissioned the extensively upgraded Dan Kabo Domestic Terminal, which has undergone a comprehensive transformation aimed at improving passenger comfort, operational efficiency and service delivery.
FAAN Managing Director and Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, described the project as a major milestone in the Authority’s efforts to reposition Nigeria’s airport infrastructure and enhance the travel experience for passengers.
According to her, Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport remains a critical gateway serving Northern Nigeria, supporting commercial activities, agricultural exports, tourism, religious pilgrimages and regional trade across West and Central Africa.
She disclosed that the airport handled 534,837 domestic passengers and 303,655 international passengers, bringing total passenger traffic to 838,492, making it Nigeria’s fourth busiest airport after Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.
Kuku added that the airport also processed more than seven million kilogrammes of imported cargo and over 1.2 million kilogrammes of exports, underlining its growing importance to regional commerce.
She expressed confidence that the latest upgrades would enable the airport to attract even higher passenger and cargo volumes while positioning it to compete more effectively with Nigeria’s leading aviation hubs.
The remodelling of the terminal included the installation of a modern baggage handling system, new check-in counters and passenger processing equipment, upgraded air-conditioning systems, improved passenger lounges, modern furniture, enhanced electrical infrastructure and reconstructed access roads. The terminal also features decorative elements celebrating Kano’s cultural heritage and Nigeria’s aviation history.
Kuku further announced that the contract for the reconstruction, expansion and remodelling of the airport’s Hajj Terminal has already been awarded. She said the contractor is expected to take possession of the site this month, with the project scheduled for completion ahead of the 2027 Hajj operations.
Chairman of the FAAN Governing Board, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, commended the Ministry of Aviation and FAAN management for driving infrastructure renewal across the country’s airports, describing the projects as critical investments that will stimulate economic growth and improve regional connectivity.
With the runway rehabilitation now underway and the upgraded domestic terminal officially commissioned, the Federal Government believes Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport is entering a new phase of growth that will strengthen its capacity to serve passengers, airlines and businesses while supporting trade and economic development across Northern Nigeria.
