The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, says the federal government is working with the Lagos State Government to extend the state rail network to key airport terminals in Lagos to improve passenger movement and transport connectivity.

Speaking at the Invest Lagos 3.0 summit, Keyamo said the proposed rail extension would connect Ikeja to the General Aviation Terminal (GAT), the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MM2), and the international airport terminal.

He explained that the project is part of a broader strategy to strengthen multimodal transport systems and position Lagos as a leading aviation hub in Africa.

According to him, “Lagos is ready for the next big step in aviation development,” adding that the rail extension would significantly improve access to airport facilities and ease movement for travellers.

Keyamo also disclosed that President Bola Tinubu has approved a $500 million investment for the modernisation and reconstruction of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. He said the project is fully funded from national resources and not through borrowing.

He added that the upgrade will transform the airport into a world-class facility within about 22 months, improving capacity and passenger experience.

The minister further noted that Lagos remains Nigeria’s busiest aviation gateway, handling about 67 percent of international passenger traffic. He said its geographic location gives it a strong advantage to serve as a major hub connecting Africa with Europe, the Middle East, South America, and other regions.

He expressed optimism that ongoing investments in infrastructure and reforms would enable Lagos to compete with major African aviation hubs such as Addis Ababa and Lomé.