FG, BI-COURTNEY END 18-YEAR DISPUTE OVER MMA2
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
The Federal Government and Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited have signed a final concession agreement, ending their more than 18-year dispute over the operation of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2) in Lagos.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the agreement, saying it would restore financial relations between the parties, boost investor confidence and support airport infrastructure development.
Keyamo said the settlement followed extensive negotiations involving the Federal Government, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Bi-Courtney and Stabilini Visinoni Limited. The Federal Executive Council approved the settlement framework on April 30, 2026.
Under the agreement, Bi-Courtney will resume paying concession fees to FAAN, while both parties will relinquish certain outstanding claims to pave the way for a fresh start. The deal also clarifies government ownership of the old domestic terminal, known as the General Aviation Terminal, and allows Bi-Courtney to expand its apron to accommodate regional flights within Africa, subject to available capacity.
The agreement further provides for separate lease arrangements to address outstanding issues involving a four-star hotel and conference centre.
Keyamo stressed that the settlement would not weaken government oversight of aviation safety, security, maintenance and operational standards. He added that successful implementation would depend on both parties fulfilling their financial and infrastructure development commitments.
Meanwhile, Bi-Courtney’s head, Wale Babalakin, commended President Bola Tinubu and the aviation minister for facilitating the resolution. He said the agreement would enable abandoned projects to resume, create jobs and strengthen investor confidence by showing that disputes between businesses and government institutions could be resolved through negotiation.