The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed the reopening of the airspace at Murtala Muhammed International Airport Terminal One following a fire incident.

FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, told journalists on Monday that there were no fatalities, though six people sustained injuries during the outbreak.

She added that three international flights, including those operated by Emirates, British Airways, and Lufthansa, were temporarily diverted.

“Some of our operations were affected; however, they will resume within the next half hour,” Kuku said, emphasizing that the immediate priority was containing the fire while investigations into its cause continue.

Highlighting the effectiveness of emergency protocols, she said, “What is important is that we activated our emergency procedures and evacuated everyone safely, with no fatalities, thanks to coordinated efforts by all agencies.”

Kuku explained that the airport’s Emergency Operations Centre had been activated under the leadership of the airport manager, serving as Chief Safety and Security Officer. “He is taking charge. We follow a standard procedure for emergencies,” she added.

She also noted that coordination among agencies adhered to established protocols, with additional support from relevant state authorities where necessary.

Regarding ongoing renovation work at the airport, Kuku clarified that the fire did not occur in any active construction area. “In the area where we believe the fire started, there were no works underway; people were only moving items out. The fire originated from the ground floor, according to our investigations so far. We are awaiting further confirmation,” she said.

The fire reportedly escalated to the roof, but police and helicopters supported rescue operations promptly. “We have professionals, including civil and structural engineers, assessing the building’s integrity to determine the next steps,” Kuku added.

Most departures and arrivals have since been relocated, with departures primarily moved to Terminal Two. Four airlines are scheduled to move into a temporary terminal, which Kuku confirmed is ready for use.

“In terms of the full operations affected, the impact is minimal,” she said, adding that the temporary terminal would be fully operational within days.

Addressing lingering smoke, Kuku assured passengers that firefighters would remain on-site as a precaution.