At MMA2, we are not just processing people, but building a lifestye community — COO

The hitherto stories about the lack of capacity by the operators of the private terminal at the Murtala Muhamed Airport, otherwise known as MMA2 to operate regional flights might be far from the truth in view of the facilities installed at the terminal.

Taking aviation journalists round the facilities at the terminal, the officials at the terminal maintained that the MMA2 was actually ready for the regional flight operations in view of the facilities on ground.

According to the head of operations of the terminal, Mr Blessing Ewah, over N600 million worth of facilities that can handle immigrations, customs, NDLEA and other facilitation processes have been made available for the regional flights.

Unfortunately, these money spinning facilities have been found to be wasting away seven years after the then Ministerial Committee on Airport Security certified the Murtala Muhammed Airport Two, fit for the commencement of regional operations.

Confirming the readiness of the terminal for regional flights, the head of operations, during the tour of the terminal by aviation journalists, who disclosed this while taking journalists on tour of facilities at the terminal,  cited how all the agencies, including the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), had assessed and approved the facilities after all necessary requirements were met, wondering why operations were yet to commence.

He said: “We are actually ready, the terminal is ready, gates 5 and 6 here have been dedicated for regional flights. We have invested over N600 million in the facilities for this operation and we have not recouped one naira, it all started in 2014.

‘‘I am alarmed that we have not commenced regional operations because we went through the entire process, we were certified but we have not been allowed to take off. I am shocked because the MMA2 terminal was built to provide services for both regional and domestic passengers, but it is presently underutilised.

“We had already spent several millions of naira to acquire the state-of-the-art facilities in preparation for regional flight operations, but the inconsistency in government policy despite the approval, had prevented it from using the facilities.” he had said.

Earlier, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the terminal, Mrs Tosan Duncan had taken time to unveil the ongoing efforts the management of the terminal, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services (BASL) to further reposition the terminal for greatness through finding peace with its partners.

She particularly cited the recent efforts to collaborate and partner with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for the purpose of making activities within the private terminal more seamless and conducive for passengers and other airport users  while they are at the terminal.

“This connection is not merely political or economic; it’s a testament to the synergy that drives progress in our modern world. This new found friendship enables us to continualy enhance the services we provide and contributes to the growth of the aviation sector in our region”, Tosan Duncan declared.

The COO who attributed the level of development so far witnessed at the terminal  to make a strong difference in the travel experience to “our visionary leader and Chairman, Dr. Bolanle Wale Babalakin, whose leadership has guided us through 16 remarkable years of operation. We’ve evolved from being a mere terminal into an integral part of the travel experience for over 8 thousand departing and arriving customers each day. Safety and security are not just our watchwords but foundational principles, ensuring the trust and confidence of the traveing public.

“We are relentless in our pursuit of excellence;it is one of our core values. Our commitment to continuous improvement is evident in our maintenance and equipment facilities, while our customer service remains the cornerstone of the passenger experience.

The introduction of the Premium Departure Concierge service is set to redefine travel, catering to the evoving needs of modern passengers. Yet, our VIP and Private Membership Lounges remain steadfast, offering a personalized haven for those seeking comfort and exclusivity.

“MMA2 isnt just an airport; it’s a dynamic ecosystem. With over 190 rental spaces

housing local and international eateries, banks, travel services, and an array of shops, we’re not just facilitating travel; we’re creating a miniatureversion of modern life. From

iterature to luxury, telecommunications to fashion, we cater to diverse tastes and

preferences. As we stand here, we’re not content with the status quo. Our aspirations are as lofty as the skies we serve. Our pans to expand and upgrade every facet of MMA2 are a testament to our dedication to meet the growing needs of our customers. We’re not just processing people; were building a lifestye community. A space where serenity and self-assuredness coexist, offering a respite from the fast-paced world beyond these walls.”