Murtala Muhammed International Airport

Murtala Muhammed Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true "gateway" to the heart of West Africa, where you can immediately feel the pulsating rhythm of Nigeria. Named after a former head of state, this bustling aviation hub welcomes millions of travellers annually, inviting them to immerse themselves in the dynamic atmosphere of Lagos from the very first minutes of arrival. Following recent modernization and the opening of a new international terminal, the airport has become significantly more comfortable, combining African hospitality with a commitment to modern service standards.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Two Main Terminals. The airport is divided into two parts: the International Terminal and the Domestic Terminal (MMA2), which are located at some distance from each other. Terminal MMA2 is known for its modern infrastructure, cleanliness, and a wide selection of shops and cafes, making the wait for domestic flights a pleasant experience.

A New Level of Comfort. The recently opened new international terminal has significantly expanded the airport's capacity. Spacious waiting halls, an improved air conditioning system, and modern aerobridges have made the departure and arrival process much more convenient for international guests.

Business Lounges and VIP Service. For travellers who value privacy, several lounge areas are available (such as the Gabfol Lounge or SDS Lounge). Here you can rest from the bustle of the general hall, use more stable Wi-Fi, and enjoy a snack before your flight.

Arrival Amenities. In the arrival zone, tourists can easily exchange currency for Nigerian Naira and purchase local SIM cards, which is critical for staying connected in the city. For transfers, it is recommended to use official yellow airport taxis or book a car through popular apps, avoiding private touts.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS).

• Official Website: The most up-to-date information can be found on the official portal of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN): mma.faan.gov.ng
• Helpline: For information, you can call the number: +234 1 279 9460. Please note that the number may change; it is recommended to verify it on the official website before calling.
• Airport Address: Murtala Muhammed Airport Road, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the email address: info@faan.gov.ng.
• Social Media: Official airport accounts can be found on major social networks under the name "Murtala Muhammed International Airport".
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you must contact your airline's baggage tracing service directly (Lost & Found). Airline counters are located in the arrival hall.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Information desks are available in the airport terminals, where staff are ready to assist and answer your questions.

Getting to Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS), the main aviation hub of Lagos and all of Nigeria, requires careful planning. The main factor to consider is the unpredictable traffic, which can turn a short trip into a multi-hour adventure. It is recommended to leave for the airport with plenty of time to spare, especially during peak hours.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

This is the most popular, convenient, and relatively safe way to get to the airport for most tourists. International services such as Uber and Bolt operate actively in the city. Using them is preferable, as the trip cost is calculated in advance in the app, and you can track the route. Official airport taxis are usually painted yellow. When using such a taxi, it is strongly recommended to agree on the price of the trip before it starts to avoid misunderstandings. The cost of a trip from central districts, such as Victoria Island or Ikoyi, can vary from ₦5,000 to ₦15,000 and above, depending on demand and traffic conditions.

Public Transport

The public transport system in Lagos can be complex for the unprepared traveller. There is no direct train or metro connection to the airport. There are city buses, including the famous yellow "Danfo" minibuses and the more modern BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) buses that run on dedicated lanes. However, their routes can be confusing, and travelling with luggage can be extremely inconvenient. This option is suitable mainly for experienced travellers on a limited budget who are ready for an adventure.

Car Rental and Transfers

Many hotels offer airport transfer services for their guests. This is one of the most reliable and comfortable options, although more expensive. You can also pre-book a private transfer through travel companies. Renting a car for self-driving in Lagos is not recommended for beginners due to the chaotic driving style and heavy traffic. A more reasonable alternative is renting a car with a driver — a popular service that ensures comfort and safety.

Travel Time and Parking

When planning your trip, allow maximum time for the road. Depending on your location, time of day, and traffic situation, the journey to the airport can take from 45 minutes in ideal conditions to 2-3 hours or more during peak hours. The airport grounds have both short-term and long-term parking for those who decide to arrive in their own or a rented vehicle.

Murtala Muhammed Airport (LOS), the main aviation hub of Lagos and all of Nigeria, consists of two main, physically separated terminals: International and Domestic. Knowing them and understanding their location is key to a calm start or end to your journey.

The International Terminal handles all flights outside of Nigeria. It is a large, multi-level building. The ground floor usually houses arrival halls and check-in counters, while the upper floors contain passport control zones, security screening, and boarding gates. A new, more modern international terminal was recently opened, which is gradually taking on more flights, offering passengers improved service and more comfortable conditions.

The Domestic Terminals consist of a complex of several buildings. There are two main ones: the old terminal, known as GAT (General Aviation Terminal), and the newer and more modern MMA2 terminal (Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2). Different local airlines use different terminals, so it is critically important to check your ticket in advance to see exactly which terminal your flight departs from.

Please note: the international and domestic terminals are located at a significant distance from each other, and there is no pedestrian connection between them. To move between them, you must use a taxi, shuttle bus, or car-hailing service. Allow at least 20-30 minutes for such a transfer, taking possible traffic into account.

Passing through registration and screening procedures can take a significant amount of time, especially for international flights. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3-4 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight. Navigation inside the terminals is guided by signs, but during peak hours it can be crowded and hectic. Do not hesitate to ask airport staff or your airline for assistance.

The history of Murtala Muhammed International Airport is a reflection of the rapid development of Nigeria's largest city, Lagos. Its origins go back to the Second World War, when an airfield was built on this site in the suburb of Ikeja. After the war, it became the city's main civilian airport, known as Lagos Airport.

A key moment in the airport's history occurred in 1976. Following the tragic assassination of the head of state, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, the airport was renamed in his honour. This decision immortalized the memory of the leader whose name now welcomes and bids farewell to millions of passengers.

The most significant stage of development was the construction of the new international terminal, which was officially opened on 15 March 1979. The terminal project was modelled after the famous Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which was a cutting-edge architectural and logistical solution at the time. This modernization allowed the airport to cope with growing international traffic and secured its status as one of the most important aviation hubs in West Africa.

In the following decades, the airport underwent several stages of modernization. After a fire in 2000 destroyed the old domestic terminal, a new modern terminal for domestic flights was built — MMA2 (Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2). It became the first airport terminal complex in Nigeria to be managed on a public-private partnership basis. Great attention was also paid to raising safety standards, which allowed the airport to receive certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and serve direct flights to the United States.

Interesting fact: despite the international and domestic terminals bearing the same name, they are located about a kilometre apart and function as two almost independent entities. Today, Murtala Muhammed Airport continues to play a central role in the economic and cultural life of not only Lagos but all of Nigeria, serving as a crossing point for many African and global routes.

Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos offers travellers all the necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminals feature numerous cafes, lounges, and restaurants where you can have a quick snack or a full meal, enjoying both local and international cuisine. For those looking to shop, there are Duty Free stores, as well as souvenir shops where you can find memorable gifts from Nigeria.

For passengers wishing to spend time in a quieter environment, premium waiting lounges and VIP lounges are available. Here, guests are offered snacks, beverages, fresh newspapers, and comfortable places to rest. To stay connected, the airport provides access to Wi-Fi, as well as special stations for charging mobile devices.

Bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points operate within the airport territory, making it easy to resolve financial matters. In case of necessity, passengers can seek assistance at the 24-hour medical centre, which is ready to provide first aid.

The airport strives to ensure comfort for all categories of passengers. For travellers with children, there are mother and child rooms where you can take care of your baby in a calm environment. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with the necessary assistance and accompaniment upon prior request to the airline.

For business travellers and those with long layovers, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. Some of them offer conference rooms and business centre services where you can work or hold a business meeting. It is recommended to check availability and book services in advance.

Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos offers a variety of dining options capable of satisfying the appetite of any traveller, whether it is a quick snack before departure or a full dinner. Catering establishments are located in both the international and domestic terminals, offering dishes for every taste and budget.

For those who want to experience the cuisine of Nigeria without leaving the airport, it is worth visiting restaurants specializing in local dishes. Here you can try the famous Jollof rice, aromatic Suya (spicy meat skewers), or hearty soups. Establishments like Kilimanjaro offer the authentic taste of local cuisine in a comfortable setting. They are excellent for a leisurely lunch and are primarily located in the departure zone after passing security control.

If you prefer familiar tastes, international fast-food chains operate at the airport. You can find KFC and Domino's Pizza outlets, which are an ideal choice for a quick and filling meal. These cafes are usually located in the main food court area in the departure hall (airside), which is convenient for passengers waiting for their flight.

For coffee lovers and those wanting light snacks, coffee shops such as Umutu Coffee Company are available. This is a wonderful place to relax with a cup of aromatic coffee and a dessert. Cafes and beverage spots can be found in both the public zone (landside) and the departure zone, allowing you to have a snack both before and after checking in for your flight. Most establishments in the international terminal operate 24 hours a day or have extended hours to serve passengers on night and morning flights.

Regarding special dietary needs, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes based on rice and vegetables. Given the significant Muslim population in the country, finding Halal food is not difficult, but it is always better to verify this directly with the establishment's staff. Gluten-free and vegan options may be more challenging to find, so passengers with strict restrictions are advised to study the menu in advance or carry suitable snacks with them.

Planning a trip through Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos requires some preparation. To ensure your journey begins smoothly, we have compiled a few useful tips. Considering this is one of the busiest airports in West Africa, it is recommended to arrive for international flights at least 3-4 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 2-3 hours. This will give you enough time to calmly go through all formalities without unnecessary haste.

To save time, take advantage of online check-in if your airline provides such a service. Keep all necessary documents — passport, visa, and ticket — close at hand, as they may be checked several times. Security procedures and customs control may take time, so remain calm and patiently follow the staff's instructions. Remember the standard rules for carry-on luggage: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag, and all valuables, electronics, and medications are best kept with you.

Passengers with transfers should check in advance whether they need to collect their luggage or if it will be automatically forwarded to the final destination. Watch the signs for transit passengers carefully to quickly find the right gate. If you have seating preferences on the plane, it is better to select your seat during booking or online check-in: a window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to move freely during the flight.

In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative for information on further actions. Depending on the duration of the wait, you may be offered vouchers for food or beverages. To save money, it is recommended to eat before arriving at the airport or carry a water bottle that can be filled after passing security control. For travel from the airport to the city, use official taxi services or book a transfer in advance to avoid inflated prices and ensure your safety in Nigeria.