A fire outbreak has reportedly engulfed the old terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, a facility currently undergoing multi-billion-naira renovation works.
The incident occurred, February 23, 2026. Details surrounding the cause and extent of the damage remain unclear as of the time of this report, but eyewitnesses and social media videos show thick black smoke billowing from sections of the old terminal building.
The affected terminal, part of the airport’s older infrastructure, has been under renovation for several months as part of the Federal Government’s broader airport upgrade programme aimed at improving passenger experience, capacity, and safety standards.
Confirming the development to DDnewsonline, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Henry Agbebire, said:
“We are aware of the outbreak, and we are there right now. We will publish a statement right now.”
FAAN and emergency response teams, including the Lagos State Fire Service and airport security personnel, are currently on ground managing the situation. Initial reports indicate no casualties have been confirmed, though the fire has disrupted some ongoing renovation activities.
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The old terminal has not been in full operational use for international flights in recent years, with most commercial operations shifted to the new international terminal (Terminal 2). However, parts of it were still used for domestic and cargo handling before the renovation began.
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, with preliminary suggestions pointing to possible electrical faults or accidents during renovation works. Investigations are expected to commence once the fire is fully contained.
MMIA remains operational through the unaffected terminals, though passengers are advised to check with airlines for any delays or disruptions.
This is a developing story. DDNewsOnline is monitoring for updates on casualties, cause of the fire, extent of damage, and official statements from FAAN, NCAA, and relevant authorities.
By Ogungbayi Beedee Adeyemi
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