Ugandan tourist hails new look of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, says no one asked for money
A Ugandan traveller, Simpo Gladys, has expressed astonishment at the transformation of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, noting that the facility now looks almost entirely different from her experience two years ago.
In a video she shared online, she highlighted the improved organisation and professionalism among airport staff, describing the environment as more structured and welcoming.
“I was here two years ago and I got lost in this airport. But coming just after two years, this place has changed. The airport is now more organised than before,” she said.
She particularly emphasised the absence of extortion, recalling how officials previously demanded money—even in foreign currency—before allowing passengers to collect their luggage.
“Last time when I came, even to get my luggage, they were asking me for dollars — not naira, but dollars. But this time around, no one has asked me for any money at the airport. Not even one person.”
According to her, airport personnel were helpful and courteous throughout her arrival, offering assistance without requesting any form of payment.
“Everyone is just telling me, you’re welcome. They are helping me out, but no one is asking for a single shilling. I’m really very, very impressed about this change,” she added.
She also observed that the terminal she used during her previous visit had been demolished and was being replaced, describing the development as a strong indication of Nigeria’s efforts to upgrade its aviation infrastructure.
“I’ve seen that the former airport I came to last time was demolished, and they’re trying to reconstruct another beautiful, nice airport for Nigeria in Lagos. Wow, this is amazing,” she said.
Reacting to the development, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, acknowledged the improvements, stating that further progress is still underway.
He wrote, “Still a lot of work to do, but we are making steady progress.”
