The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers has credited the leadership of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria with preventing a major crisis during Monday’s fire at MMIA’s old international terminal.
The association said swift action and coordinated emergency procedures protected lives and maintained operational control. NAAPE President, Bunmi Gindeh, praised Olubunmi Kuku for directing a prompt and orderly response. Personnel were evacuated from sensitive areas, firefighting and medical teams were mobilised, and inbound international flights were safely diverted.
Gindeh noted that the response reflected preparedness rather than panic. “The activation of the Emergency Operations Centre, structured evacuation, and orderly flight diversions show that FAAN had a functional emergency plan in place”, he said.
The association highlighted that airport incidents can ripple across operations, but the absence of fatalities and the gradual restoration of services demonstrated effective coordination and discipline. NAAPE also praised FAAN’s multi-agency collaboration, including firefighting, security, medical, and technical teams.
While investigations and structural assessments continue, NAAPE called for continued investment in modern infrastructure, redundancy systems, and regular emergency drills. The association reaffirmed its commitment to aviation safety and expressed confidence that normal operations will resume following technical reviews and repairs.
About the Author
