Air travelers heading to Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), the Domestic Terminal (MMA2), and the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) on Monday faced severe delays after visually impaired and physically challenged protesters blocked major access roads, forcing many passengers to trek long distances with their luggage to catch flights.
The early-morning blockade was staged by more than 500 members of the Farmcraft Centre for the Blind, comprising students from the School of the Blind and the School of the Disabled in Isheri, Lagos.
They were demanding the reopening of their schools, which have been closed for over two years.
Key access routes through Hajj Camp and NAHCO were completely locked down, causing hours-long gridlock.
Stranded travelers abandoned their vehicles and walked, with some missing flights despite their efforts.
“I had to trek from Five-Star Bus Stop all the way to MMA2 with my bags,” said a passenger flying to Abuja. “By the time I got there, I was drenched in sweat and barely made it.”
Another passenger headed to GAT described the scene: “People were rolling their suitcases down the road. Even those flying locally had to walk in groups to make it in time.”
Group spokesperson Dolor said the government had ignored repeated letters and visits to Abuja, leaving them without education or welfare. “Our school has been shut for over two years… Many of us now beg to survive,” he said.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) confirmed the protest and advised travelers to leave much earlier than usual while security agencies worked to ease the gridlock.
Similarly, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operator of MMA2, said the protest was beyond its control but assured travelers that flights at its terminal continued on schedule despite the road chaos.
“We know how frustrating it is to miss a flight after being stuck in traffic or trekking with heavy luggage,” said Mrs. Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, Head of Corporate Communications. “While MMA2 remained operational, the blockade affected passengers heading to all terminals. Our team has been on the ground to guide travelers and work with security agencies to restore movement.”
BASL urged passengers to monitor its official channels for real-time travel updates until the situation normalises.
