The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has announced that operations at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport have resumed following a major fire outbreak on Monday that left six persons injured and forced the temporary closure of the airport’s airspace.
The incident occurred at the Control Tower area of Terminal 1, prompting an immediate activation of emergency response protocols. In a statement, FAAN confirmed that firefighting, rescue and safety teams were swiftly deployed to contain the blaze and evacuate those affected.
According to the authority, a crane was mobilised to support rescue operations at the Control Tower. All 14 people initially trapped in the facility were successfully rescued and safely evacuated. FAAN disclosed that six casualties—three males and three females—were recorded, with all injured persons reported to be in stable condition. One victim was transferred to the FAAN Headquarters Hospital for further medical evaluation.
“As an additional safety precaution, the sixth floor of the affected facility has been completely evacuated to support ongoing emergency operations and risk mitigation,” the statement read.
Preliminary findings by the Fire Service indicate that the fire originated from the server room on the first floor of Terminal 1. Authorities said the blaze in the departure hall has been largely brought under control, while responders continue to monitor adjoining sections to prevent any spread.
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) began arrangements to establish a temporary Control Tower to ensure the safe restoration of flight operations. FAAN activated mutual aid agreements, receiving reinforcements from the Lagos State Government, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency.
FAAN Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, told journalists on Monday night that there were no fatalities, but six people sustained injuries. She confirmed that three international flights were diverted during the incident.
“Some of our operations were affected; however, they will be back up and running in the next half an hour. If you have friends or family on the diverted flights, British Airways went to Abuja, Lufthansa to Malabo, and Emirates was also diverted,” Kuku said.
She stated that most departures and arrivals had been moved, with departures largely relocated to Terminal 2. Four airlines are scheduled to move into the temporary terminal, which she described as ready for use.
“In terms of the full operations affected, I would say not a lot,” Kuku added, assuring passengers that firefighters would remain on ground as a precaution.
The fire incident comes amid ongoing Federal Government plans to remodel Terminal 1, which was constructed over four decades ago. Authorities said investigations into the immediate cause of the fire are ongoing and pledged to provide further verified updates.
