Finally, the almost two decade long protracted disagreements between the Federal Government and Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of Murtala Muhammed Domestic Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2) on the concession of the terminal is settled.
The historic settlement was brokered on Thursday April 30, 2026, at a meeting held at the instance of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Barrister Festus Keyamo SAN in Abuja.
A statement by the Special Adviser to the Minister on information Media which confirmed the development, Tunde Moshood, said: “The resolution of the long-standing disagreement surrounding the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MM2) was formally approved today by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), marking a significant turning point in Nigeria’s aviation history.”
Detailing the terms of agreement of the agreement that marked a significant turning point in Nigeria’s aviation history, Moshood said management of BASL agreed to write off a N132 billion Supreme Court judgment debt previously owed it by the Federal Government.
He added that the terminal operator also agreed to relinquish the exclusivity clause tied MMA2 concession on the operations of MMA1 popularly known as Lagos GAT., in return the Federal Government restored the rights to complete and operate the long-stalled hotel and conference centre project on a mutually beneficial revenue-sharing basis whilevplans are underway to relocate regional flight operations to MMA2, with provisions for apron expansion to accommodate increased traffic where necessary.
“Under the terms of the negotiated settlement, Bi-Courtney has agreed to write off the N132 billion Supreme Court judgment debt previously owed by the Federal Government. In addition, the company has relinquished the exclusivity clause tied to the MM2 concession and has handed back the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 1 (MM1) to the Federal Government.
“In return, the Federal Government has restored to Bi-Courtney the rights to complete and operate the long-stalled hotel and conference centre project on a mutually beneficial revenue-sharing basis.
“Furthermore, plans are underway to relocate regional flight operations to MM2, with provisions for apron expansion to accommodate increased traffic where necessary. This strategic move ensures that the Federal Government begins to earn immediate revenue from the revitalized arrangement,” the Minister’s spokesperson said.
Described as a “win-win” outcome for all parties, the agreement unlocks the full commercial and operational potential of MMA2, positioning it as a central hub for regional aviation. It also clears longstanding encumbrances that have hindered broader infrastructure development, including the proposed Lekki International Airport project.
Additionally, the deal aligns with forward-looking reforms in the aviation sector, including plans to establish a private-sector-driven aircraft leasing company aimed at supporting Nigerian airlines with access to modern fleets under competitive terms.
The Honourable Minister, Festus Keyamo, commended all stakeholders for their commitment to dialogue and national interest, emphasised that the resolution reflects the Federal Government’s dedication to fostering a conducive environment for investment, efficiency, and growth in the aviation industry.
Special recognition was also given Chairman of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, Dr Wale Babalakin SAN and Minister, both who leveraged their professional relationship and shared commitment to national development to achieve this breakthrough.
This milestone agreement signals a new era of collaboration between the public and private sectors and underscores the administration’s resolve to remove legacy bottlenecks, enhance infrastructure, and reposition Nigeria as a leading aviation hub in Africa.
