The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria will now collect fees from the domestic terminal at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo announced this development on Tuesday, marking the end of a conflict that had persisted for approximately twenty years. The settlement was formalized after the Federal Executive Council approved the framework under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, according to Punch.
The legal dispute stemmed from a 2003 concession deal for the terminal’s construction and operation. Initially set for twelve years, the agreement was later extended to thirty-six years. Over time, disagreements regarding financial obligations and contractual rights led to multiple court cases. Bi-Courtney argued it was missing promised benefits, while the authority claimed it needed to protect public assets. The conflict also involved ownership of the General Aviation Terminal and claims against the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria.
Under the new terms, the General Aviation Terminal remains federal property, operated by the authority. This decision overrides a previous Supreme Court ruling that favored the private company. In return, Bi-Courtney gains permission to expand its apron and relocate regional African flights to the domestic terminal, depending on available capacity. Both sides agreed to waive outstanding historical financial claims, creating a reciprocal framework for future duties. The deal also addresses a stalled hotel and conference center project near the airport, restoring lease rights for the abandoned structures.
Keyamo described the process as a negotiation between his ministry and Dr. Wale Babalakin, chairman of the Bi-Courtney Group. He noted that legal and technical teams from both sides worked to resolve the complex issues. Babalakin expressed gratitude for the resolution, stating that the dispute had remained unresolved for over eighteen years. He emphasized that the settlement would create high-quality jobs and improve the airport's appearance by completing previously abandoned projects.
The minister highlighted that the government retains regulatory oversight over security and maintenance standards, while the concessionaire gains investment certainty. He urged both parties to ensure the agreement results in functioning facilities and dependable service for the travelling public. The settlement is intended to establish clearer obligations and allow the government to plan airport development within a revised contractual framework.