The minister of aviation and aerospace development, Mr. Festus Keyamo has constituted a five-man team to oversee the relocation of international airlines from the old to the new terminal at the international wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.
The minister said in a statement issued by the spokesman for the ministry, Mr Oluseyi Odutayo that the move was necessitated by the recent fire outbreak at the old international terminal.
Members of the task force are the retired permanent secretary and former director of the department of air transport management Mr Hassan Musa, as team leader; general manager, aerodrome at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Mr Adebayo Oladipo; special assistant to the minister, Mr. Collins Mukoro, special adviser to the minister, Mrs. Uyoyou Edhekpo and the special assistant to the minister, Mr Henry Agbebire
The task force has three terms of reference – resolve passenger concerns, minismise discomfort and ensure effective public communication.
“The task force will work diligently towards resolving all concerns raised by passengers regarding congestion, discomfort, and related issues stemming from terminal relocation. We are committed to ensuring that every passenger’s voice is heard and addressed promptly.
“Our focus dwells on minimising any form of discomfort during this transition period. Efforts will be made in streamlining processes at both terminals while closely monitoring operations 24/7. Measures such as enhanced signage, dedicated support staff, improved communication channels will be implemented proactively.
“We pledge transparency throughout this process by providing regular updates on progress made in addressing concerns arising from airline relocations. FAAN aims at improving public relations strategies through various channels including online platforms and customer service help lines so that you stay informed about developments firsthand,” the statement said.
The minister expressed regrets about the inconvenience the relocation would cause air travellers and pledged “our commitment to passenger comfort, safety, and overall satisfaction during this transitional period.”
Keyamo urged all passengers and other stakeholders to be patient and “bear with us as the inconvenience caused will soon be resolved” saying their understanding “plays a vital role in making this transition smoother for everyone involved.”
Recall that the minister had, during the inspection of the Lagos Airport on Thursday August 31, issued a deadline of October 1 to all the foreign airlines to move their offices from the old terminal to the new one built by China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC).
