Daily foot traffic at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 climbed to about 15,000 people per day during the 2025 Detty December period, reflecting an unprecedented surge in passenger movement driven largely by returning diaspora Nigerians, an airport executive has said.
Remi Jibodu, Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Aeronautics and Cargo at MMA2, disclosed this while speaking at the Naija7Wonders Meeting 3.0 hosted by the organisers of Akwaaba African Travel Market and convened by travel promoter Ikechi Uko. The forum brought together tourism, travel and hospitality stakeholders to strategise on improving coordination and profitability of Nigeria’s December tourism season.
Jibodu said the domestic terminal experienced an unprecedented festive rush, describing the airport as both a gateway infrastructure and an emerging tourism touch point during peak travel periods.
According to him, many of the travelers were Nigerians returning from abroad, with several connecting from international flights to cities hosting December entertainment and cultural activities.
He noted that the influx exceeded projections and placed pressure on terminal facilities, including departure halls and passenger amenities.
However, he said emergency response systems and rapid operational adjustments ensured that no major incidents were recorded.
To manage passenger flow, the terminal expanded premium departure services and optimized VIP lounge access, particularly for business class and diaspora travelers.
Jibodu added that the festive rush also boosted commercial activity within the airport, with restaurants, transport services and charter flight operations recording increased patronage.
Feedback from returning diaspora travelers indicated improved passenger experience and infrastructure, with some noting significant changes since their last visits, he said.
Looking ahead, Jibodu stated that airport management has adopted data-driven planning to better anticipate year-end demand, with preparations beginning earlier in the calendar year.
He projected that increased airline capacity, relatively moderated fares and improving economic conditions could drive even higher passenger volumes in the next festive season.
He emphasized that aviation remains a critical enabler of Nigeria’s December tourism economy, positioning the airport not only as a transit hub but also as a first point of hospitality experience for visitors.
By Friday Nwosu
