The Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, Farouk Umar, reported significant losses due to a fire that broke out at Terminal 1 of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The blaze destroyed key air-to-ground communications equipment, which is vital for maintaining safe and efficient air traffic control. As a result, air traffic controllers have been forced to use emergency backup systems to continue operations, despite the limitations these systems impose.

Umar emphasized the incident's grave impact on airport operations, highlighting that the fire caused not only disruptions but also flight diversions and necessitated an extensive emergency response. The destruction of communication infrastructure poses serious challenges for air navigation services, as it undermines the ability to effectively manage air traffic in one of Nigeria’s busiest airports.

In his statements, Umar expressed concern over the reliance on backup systems and the implications for safety and efficiency in air traffic operations. He indicated that unless repairs or replacements can be made swiftly, ongoing operational challenges could continue to affect flight operations at the airport, raising safety concerns for passengers and airlines alike.