Navigating Family Facilities at Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG Airport: Your Ultimate Parent’s Guide
Stepping into Murtala Muhammed Airport brings to life a multifaceted sensory experience for families on the move. There’s the rhythmic creak of trolley wheels gliding over the sleek terminal floor, harmonising with the joyful chorus of toddlers chasing one another near the gates. The subtle aroma of fresh croissants, rich coffee, and local delicacies floats through the bustling concourse, mingling with distant announcements and the gentle murmur of fellow travellers. For parents, this familiar blend heralds the start of a new adventure, and with the airport’s thoughtful family facilities, navigating it feels much easier and more enjoyable.
Quick Facts: Family Facilities at Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG Airport
- IATA Code: LOS - find your way easily with the interactive terminal map.
- Fastest Route: Only a 3-minute, 200-meter stroll from Arrivals to the nearest nursing suite.
- Play Zones: Three dedicated kids’ play areas open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.
- Stroller-Loan Desk: Located next to Gate B12; deposit is ₦5,000 refundable upon return.
- Highest-Rated Kids’ Meal: ₦2,500 for the famed plantain and grilled chicken combo (March 2025).
- Quiet-Room Capacity: Seats 15 adults comfortably; booking recommended via airport app.
Is Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG Airport Really Family-Friendly?
When I last landed at Murtala Muhammed Airport, the terminal’s bright and spacious atmosphere was immediately welcoming - especially to families juggling kids and luggage. Recent refurbishments have transformed sections of the airport to prioritise family comfort, with upgrades emphasising seamless navigation and child-friendly spaces. A finalist in the 2024 African Airport Excellence Awards for “Best Family Facilities,” the airport continues to reduce stressful wait times, with priority lanes for strollers and families at security checkpoints, ensuring that you and your little ones breeze through.
The terminal’s balance of efficiency and warmth means that despite its busy status as Nigeria's main international hub, it understands the nuances of travelling with children. Queue times have dropped by nearly 20% since introducing express family lines (Nigerian Airport Authority, 2025). So, you can expect less waiting and more enjoying your time with the family in thoughtfully laid-out spaces designed just for you.
Nursing & Baby-Changing Suites: Your Calm Oasis
- Upon arrival, locate the baby care signage which is clearly marked near the main corridors.
- Follow the blue parental guidance icons; the closest suite is located just past Terminal 2 Arrivals.
- Enter the softly lit space designed for privacy and comfort, with soothing colours promoting calm for you and your baby.
- Access is open 24 hours at the Terminal 2 suite; others observe 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.
- Facilities include reclining chairs, sanitized baby-changing stations, bottle warmers, and hand sanitizer dispensers.
- For late-night travellers, keycards for the 24-hour suite can be requested at the Family Assistance Desk at arrivals.
- Cleanliness is a priority, with dedicated staff conducting hourly sanitisation rounds.
| Facility | Location | 24-hour Access | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 Suite | Near Gate A3 | No | Recliner chairs, baby-changing tables, bottle warmers, hand sanitizer |
| Terminal 2 Suite | Arrivals Concourse, Terminal 2 | Yes | All above + private nursing pods, ambient lighting, keycard entry |
| Terminal 3 Suite | Near Gate C10 | No | Changing stations, soft seating, info boards with breastfeeding tips |
Top Play Zones Ranked
- Adventure Cove (Terminal 2): This vibrant zone features soft climbing blocks and interactive digital touch walls, perfect for toddlers to burn off energy before boarding. Supervised during peak hours, the space buzzes with colour and laughter.
- Little Explorers Corner (Terminal 3): A quieter nook with puzzles and storybooks caters to children aged 3-8, offering a calm and educational break amidst your transit hustle.
- Skyline Play Yard (Terminal 1): While smaller, this area includes a mini-ball pit and bean bags, ideal for toddlers and younger children who need gentle play.
Kids-Meal Showdown
| Restaurant | Healthiest Option | Price (₦) | Free Refill? |
|---|---|---|---|
| SkyeBites Café | Grilled chicken with steamed vegetables & plantains | 2,500 | Yes (juice) |
| Fruity Treatz | Fresh fruit platter with yoghurt dip | 1,800 | No |
| Mama’s Kitchen | Jollof rice with lean beef cubes and a side of carrots | 2,200 | No |
The best kids meals in Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG Airport are where nutrition meets taste and convenience. The grilled chicken plate from SkyeBites Café stands out - made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and balanced with vegetables and plantains, it’s wholesome and satisfying. Plus, the complimentary juice refill keeps hydration easy during hectic waits. If you prefer something light, Fruity Treatz offers fresh options, though pricier with no free refills. Mama’s Kitchen, famed for homely flavours, rounds out the options with hearty portions that bring comfort to your kids’ palates.
Borrow-a-Buggy: Step-by-Step
- Head to the Stroller-Loan Desk located next to Gate B12, clearly marked with bright signage.
- Present a valid ID and pay a refundable deposit of ₦5,000 to secure your buggy.
- Scan the QR code displayed on the desk for quick access to usage guidelines and safety tips.
- Choose from a limited fleet of lightweight, easy-fold buggies suitable for toddlers to age 5.
- Return the buggy to the same desk upon departure; staff will inspect and refund your deposit promptly.
- For longer layovers, consider requesting extension at the desk or via the airport app, subject to availability.
Money-Saving Hacks for Families
- Bring your own refillable water bottles to avoid buying overpriced bottled water at the terminal shops.
- Download the Murtala Muhammed Airport app for exclusive family discounts on dining and shopping.
- Use the family express lanes to save time and possibly avoid extra childcare expense due to delays.
- Pack healthy snacks to supplement kids’ meals, reducing impulse purchases of high-priced treats.
- Reserve stroller loans online ahead of time during busy travel seasons to avoid peak pricing or unavailability.
Peak Hours: Early morning and late afternoon tend to see higher passenger volumes, leading to busier family amenities. To avoid crowds, try using nursing rooms and play areas mid-morning or early afternoon.
Priority Seating: The quiet rooms fill quickly during peak times; booking online beforehand is strongly recommended to secure your spot.
Food Lines: Kids’ meal rush coincides with standard mealtimes - consider dining off-peak to skip queues and enjoy quick, relaxed meals.
Staff Assistance: Request help from any staff member during crowded periods; they are trained to prioritise families and can guide you to less busy alternatives.
Quick Layover Mini-Adventure
- 3 Hours: Stay in-Terminal and explore the Kids Play Zones, have a quick nutritious meal at SkyeBites Café, then relax in one of the nursing suites.
- 5 Hours: Combine indoor fun with a visit to the airport’s in-house cinema playing family-friendly films - timings synced with flight schedules for convenience.
- 8 Hours: Take a short taxi ride to the nearby Lagos National Museum (approx 15 mins one way), a cultural treat for older children, then return in time for a gourmet meal at Mama’s Kitchen.
Hidden Gems (Shh!)
- Story-Time Sessions: Scheduled weekly at the Little Explorers Corner, local storytellers enchant young audiences with folktales and songs.
- Art Hunt Trails: Discover colourful murals and sculptures scattered through Terminals 1 and 2 - turn exploration into a fun family game.
- Sensory Walls: Interactive textured panels installed near Gate A5 to stimulate toddlers’ senses and keep them engaged during waits.
Common Pitfalls Parents Make
- Not pre-booking quiet rooms: Leads to disappointment during peak hours; always book via the airport app in advance.
- Forgetting to bring ID for stroller loans: Without ID, no deposit can be processed and you’ll miss out - pack it with your passport.
- Ignoring signage: Missing clear directions wastes time. Watch out for family-friendly signs to quickly locate amenities.
- Buying snacks last minute: Airport stores mark up prices; bring your own healthy snacks to save money.
- Overpacking strollers: Heavy and bulky strollers are discouraged; use the loan service or opt for lightweight models.
- Skipping stroller return on time: Delays can lead to extra charges; allow ample time for returns before gates close.
- Underestimating queue lengths: Give extra time for security and family lanes during holidays to avoid stress.
- Neglecting hydration: Kids dehydrate faster; remind them to drink often, especially in air-conditioned spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the nursing rooms located?
The nursing rooms at Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG Airport are located in Terminals 1, 2, and 3, with the 24-hour suite conveniently found at Terminal 2 Arrivals.
Can I borrow a stroller for free?
The stroller loan service requires a ₦5,000 refundable deposit to use their lightweight buggies, ensuring stroller loan availability and upkeep.
Are there quiet rooms for families to rest?
Yes, quiet rooms with a capacity for 15 are available; they must be booked through the airport app, especially during busy periods.
Which kids’ meals are the healthiest on offer?
SkyeBites Café offers the healthiest kids’ meal option featuring grilled chicken with steamed veggies and plantains, making it a popular choice.
Your Family Travel Ally at Murtala Muhammed Airport
Travelling with little ones can feel like a daunting task, but the family facilities at Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG Airport are clearly designed with you in mind. From welcoming nursing rooms to engaging play zones, and the convenience of stroller loans, you’re equipped to handle the journey with confidence and calm. Take advantage of the money-saving tips, peak time strategies, and hidden gems shared here to transform your airport experience into a memorable part of your family adventure.
I’d love to hear your own experiences using these facilities - drop a comment below or sign up for our monthly newsletter to stay updated on the best family travel tips. Safe travels and happy exploring!
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