Monday, February 23, 2026 l Dalena News Desk
LAGOS, NIGERIA — A major fire outbreak has engulfed the old terminal building at Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Monday afternoon, prompting emergency responses, temporary closure of airspace and disruptions to flight operations, officials and eyewitnesses reported.
The blaze, which began in the older Terminal 1 section of the airport currently undergoing a multi-billion naira renovation was first spotted around mid-afternoon, with thick black smoke rising visibly across the airport area. Preliminary reports suggest the fire originated near a server area inside the building before spreading vertically through sections of the structure.
Emergency teams from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Lagos State fire services responded swiftly, deploying firefighters and rescue personnel to contain the outbreak and protect nearby infrastructure. FAAN confirmed it was aware of the incident and that its emergency units were actively working to curb spread and control the situation.
While early reports indicated no confirmed fatalities, multiple people were taken to medical facilities after evacuations. Thick smoke led to immediate evacuation of passengers, airport staff and workers near the renovation site.
The outbreak caused significant operational disruptions as the airport’s airspace was temporarily shut forcing several international flights, including those from British Airways, Lufthansa and Emirates, to divert to alternate airports such as Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and airports outside the country. Airlines reported delays and reroutes as emergency measures were enforced.
Eyewitness videos circulating online show thick smoke billowing from the terminal’s roof as firefighters battled the blaze, and responders worked to evacuate personnel from affected areas. Portions of the control tower and adjacent infrastructure were temporarily cordoned off as safety precautions.
By late evening, FAAN and collaborating agencies said the fire had been brought largely under control, though efforts were still ongoing to fully extinguish remaining hotspots and prevent re-ignition while damage assessments continue. Airport operations were partially restored at nearby facilities not impacted by the blaze.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, which remains unclear, and are expected to release updates as findings become available. Passengers were advised to confirm travel plans with airlines before heading to the airport amid ongoing responses and possible further disruptions.