Nigerian Aviation Fire and Safety Association Calls for Overhaul of MMIA

The Nigerian Aviation Fire and Safety Association (NAFSA) has raised concerns over the state of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, calling for urgent rehabilitation or a total overhaul of the building. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Chairman of NAFSA, Mr. Sunday Ugbeikwu, emphasized the need to address the aging infrastructure to prevent recurrent fire incidents at the airport.

Outdated Infrastructure at MMIA

According to Mr. Ugbeikwu, the MMIA building, which has been in use for over 40 years, is in dire need of renovation or remodeling. The aging infrastructure poses a significant risk of fire outbreaks due to overloading of the electricity system caused by the increasing number of concessionaires around the airport. The chairman highlighted that many shops and concessionaire points in MMIA were not part of the original master plan, leading to a haphazard wiring system that increases the potential for fire hazards.

Importance of Modernization

Mr. Ugbeikwu stressed the importance of modernizing MMIA to align with international safety standards and prevent disasters. He emphasized that while the fire equipment at the airport is capable of handling domestic fires effectively, the focus should be on addressing the structural deficiencies of the building. By undertaking a comprehensive rehabilitation or overhaul of MMIA, the airport can ensure a safer environment for passengers, employees, and concessionaires.

Need for Adequate Fire Personnel

In addition to infrastructure upgrades, Mr. Ugbeikwu highlighted the need for more fire personnel at MMIA to enhance emergency response capabilities. He noted that aviation-related fires require specialized skills and technical expertise beyond what is required for domestic fires. The chairman called for the recruitment of additional firefighters to meet the minimum standards set by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and ensure prompt and effective emergency response in the event of a fire incident.

As the gateway to Nigeria and a major hub for air travel in West Africa, MMIA plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of passengers and aircraft. By addressing the concerns raised by NAFSA and investing in the modernization of the airport infrastructure, Nigeria can enhance its aviation safety standards and reputation in the global aviation industry.

In conclusion, the call for an overhaul of MMIA by the Nigerian Aviation Fire and Safety Association underscores the urgent need to prioritize safety and security in the aviation sector. By taking proactive measures to address the structural deficiencies and operational challenges at the airport, Nigeria can enhance its readiness to respond to emergencies and uphold international safety standards. It is imperative for stakeholders in the aviation industry to collaborate and invest in the necessary upgrades to ensure the long-term safety and sustainability of MMIA.