Ahead of the commencement of airlift of Muslim pilgrims in Lagos, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has upgraded facilities at the Hajj terminal at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) to ensure seamless facilitation of pilgrims heading to the holy land in Saudi Arabia.

The FAAN installed two brand new scanners for passenger and baggage screening while installing 17 units of cooling system.

Also installed were cubicles for immigration, security personnel, and improved seating areas for pilgrims even as the terminal was upgraded to accommodate over 6000 pilgrims at a go.

Speaking during a tour of the Hajj terminal, the terminal manager, Adedayo Alale, disclosed that other facilities like LED displays, and CCTV cameras to monitor and ensure security across the terminal premises were installed.

The male and female lounges, as well as mosques have been upgraded with new cooling systems while the VIP and VVIP lounges were also remodelled ahead of the commencement of airlift.

Daily Trust reports that pilgrims from South West, South South and the armed forces would be airlifted from Lagos.

Alale stated that the FAAN is fully ready for the airlift of pilgrims from the terminal, adding that the facilities were fully refurbished for the comfort and convenience of the intended pilgrims.

He stated that the terminal has implemented contactless processes, including automated machines and separate areas for different activities, to minimise interactions between pilgrims and staff.

“You can see we have phased out the old screening machines and replaced them with modern ones and they are all working perfectly. We have installed several air conditions that would make the terminal conclusive for passengers while they await their flights.

“The terminal has a linguistic team that can communicate with pilgrims in different languages, including local languages, to ensure that everyone is informed and guided throughout the process,” he said.