Agency Rift Delayed Airport Wi-Fi — Minister

The federal government has attributed the absence of internet access at major international airports to a turf dispute between two regulatory agencies, which has now been resolved.

According to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the disagreement involved the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), both of which had competing claims over who should handle Wi-Fi infrastructure.

NAMA argued that its mandate covers communication and navigation systems, while FAAN maintained that airport infrastructure falls within its domain.

Keyamo said the standoff delayed implementation until it was formally resolved with NAMA assigned the responsibility. However, due to timing, the project could not be included in the 2024 budget cycle.

He confirmed that the rollout of Wi-Fi services has now been captured in the 2025 budget, and passengers can expect working internet at Lagos airport’s Terminal 2 by the end of next year.

The ministry is also exploring public-private partnerships to ensure long-term support for the service.

In a related matter, Keyamo defended the government’s plan to remodel Terminal One of the Lagos airport, a project costing over ₦700 billion. He explained that the funds would come from a special infrastructure initiative, not the national budget, and that the upgrade is necessary to retain international airlines and meet global aviation standards.