Following Monday’s fire at Murtala Muhammed International Airport’s terminal one, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency said air-to-ground communication was stabilised using emergency backup systems.

NAMA’s managing director, Ahmed Farouk, said on Wednesday in Lagos that the fire completely destroyed all primary communication systems.

Mr Farouk inspected the affected terminal and ongoing work at the site designated for the mobile control tower.

“We had no option but to suspend inbound aircraft into Lagos. Fortunately, there was a prompt response to the emergency we encountered. Communication covering the aerodrome approach and air control remains uninterrupted. At NAMA, we do not anticipate emergencies, but we are professionals always ready for such incidents.

“I want to assure Nigerians and the flying public that the nation’s airspace remains safe because we take safety seriously,” he said.

Mr Farouk commended air traffic controllers for their dexterity in restoring normalcy and expressed gratitude that no lives were lost. On the mobile tower, he said, poor terrain initially delayed its movement because the ground could not support the structure.

“We asked the Chinese firm handling works here to assist with civil works. From my inspection, they have done well within 24 hours. Hopefully, by tomorrow or next, we will move the mobile tower. I assure Nigerians that air-to-ground communication will remain uninterrupted.

“To be honest, the fire completely affected our air-to-ground communication. What currently sustains operations is the backup moved from other locations to Lagos,” he said.

Mr Farouk added that beyond stabilising operations, significant work remains to fully restore affected infrastructure.

The fire reportedly began about 3:30 p.m. on Monday and was contained by firefighters from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and other responders.

Several floors were ravaged, destroying equipment worth millions of naira belonging to agencies, airlines and concessionaires.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire and the total value of losses incurred.

(NAN)