Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos serves as Nigeria’s busiest air hub. Opened in 1977, it handles over ten million passengers yearly and connects to global destinations like London, Dubai and New York. The terminal features modern check-in counters, baggage systems and duty-free shops. Flights operate daily with major carriers such as Air Peace and Ethiopian Airlines. Nearby hotels provide lodging for layovers or early departures. The airport’s location in Lagos makes it a key gateway to West Africa’s largest economy.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type D , Type G
Type D:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Nigerian Naira (NGN) £1 ≈ NGN 1,788.46 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common in Nigeria, particularly in larger cities. Credit cards are accepted in many businesses in urban areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not mandatory in Nigeria, but small tips (5-10%) are appreciated in restaurants. Taxis and hotel staff may expect small tips. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in designated areas, though alcohol consumption is generally restricted in certain regions due to local customs. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in designated areas, and many public spaces have non-smoking policies. |
| Independence Day (1 October) |
Celebrating Nigeria’s independence from the UK |
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| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Bolt |
| Other: | Nigeria is a large country with a rich cultural heritage, but travellers should be aware of the security situation and healthcare facilities. |
Murtala Muhammed International Airport sits in Ikeja, Lagos, boasting multiple terminals separating domestic and international flights. Although it is Nigeria's busiest airport, it often struggles with congestion, outdated infrastructure and operational challenges. A newer international terminal was commissioned recently, improving overall passenger experience but pressures remain high.
The airport offers a range of services including lounges, retail outlets and dining options. The duty-free shops provide a broad selection of products, especially favoring local and international luxury brands. However, lines can be long and facilities sometimes under-maintained, reflecting the airport’s need for further modernization.
Travellers should be aware of some common challenges like inconsistent signage, limited English-speaking staff outside main counters and procedures that may feel chaotic and slow, especially during peak hours. Security is thorough, but checkpoints may be duplicated, stretching processing times.
Lagos traffic is notorious and the airport is about 25 km from central Lagos, so transport arrangements should factor in potential delays. Taxis and ride services are the most reliable ways to navigate to and from the airport, while public transport is limited and not recommended for unfamiliar visitors.
Located in the E-Wing of the departure hall, this lounge offers high-speed 5G internet, comfortable seating, premium snacks and drinks, live boarding information, toilet facilities, and a children’s play area. Access is reserved for MTN Gold, Platinum, and Yéllo customers and offers an exclusive environment amidst the busy terminal.
Open to premium ticket holders and via access programmes, this lounge provides refreshments, Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a quieter atmosphere. It is located in the international terminal area.
The platinum lounge offers food on request, ample seating, and premium service for annual subscribers only, including business travellers and VIP guests.
Accommodation near the airport is limited, so most visitors prefer staying in Lagos city center or Lagos Island, where there is a wide range of hotels from budget to luxury, business hotels and guesthouses offering good access to the city’s attractions.
To Lagos City Center:
Taxis and ride-hailing services are the easiest and safest options, taking about 45 minutes without heavy traffic but can double in rush hour. There is no direct public transport to the airport; bus stops lie about 15 minutes away by foot. A train service is planned, but currently unavailable. Negotiating taxi fares in advance is advised.
To Victoria Island:
A central business district reachable by taxi or ride-share, usually 40-60 minutes from the airport depending on traffic congestion, with fares varying widely. Public transport is not recommended here due to safety and convenience concerns.
To Lekki:
A quickly developing area accessible mostly by taxi; rides typically take 45 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport options are scarce, so private transport is preferable.
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