Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport
Abuja, NG · 20 km (12 mi) southwest of the city centre
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Abuja Airport–City Shuttle Minibus service | — | — |
| Airport Car Hire Private car service | 20-25 km | — |
| Airport Shuttle Bus to city center | — | — |
| Bolt Rideshare | nearly 25 min | 10-15 |
Insider notes
Parking at the airport is cash-heavy and costs ₦500 for the first hour; get dropped off at the curb to avoid paying more.
The Pearl Lounge in T2 offers showers, beds, and full meals for around USD 35; worth it before an international haul.
Green Taxis are the most straightforward landside option; skip touts and head directly to the signed taxi rank.
Welcome
Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV) in Abuja has seen a remarkable transformation, catching many by surprise with its new amenities and upgrades from the old horror tales. Since the unveiling of the gleaming new international terminal in 2018, which hosts 22 gates and services airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines, the airport has become a bit of a business traveler hub. Free, though sometimes unreliable, Wi-Fi and pay-in lounges elevate the experience for frequent flyers. Yet, challenges persist: expect chaotic arrivals and disruptive taxi routines.
At a glance
Located 20 km southwest of Abuja's city center, the airport handles about 5.5 million passengers annually. It's home to two terminals: the Domestic Terminal (T1) with 22 gates for airlines like Air Peace and Arik Air, and the International Terminal (T2) also with 22 gates. Notably, the airport features several lounges and a mix of dining options but lacks overnight sleeping facilities, a point of frustration for many late-night flyers.
Terminals & layout
ABV operates with two terminals: T1 primarily handles domestic flights with airlines such as Dana Air, while T2 is focused on international services. Travelers can find the Airspace Lounge on the second floor of T1, offering respite for about USD 19, while T2's Pearl Lounge in Module C serves more premium amenities like showers and meals at around USD 35 when booked online.
Getting to and from the city
Transport from the airport includes the official Green Taxi service, known for being a safer and regulated option compared to informal touts. A recent addition is the shuttle service to the city center, offering a cheaper alternative and catching the attention of budget travelers. Uber and Bolt are viable rideshare options, taking about 25 minutes to reach the city, though you may encounter surge pricing during peak hours.
Traveller essentials
Ensure you have cash on hand: ATMs are available but not always reliable. The new park-and-pay system for airport parking costs ₦500 for the first hour and ₦200 for every additional hour. To navigate efficiently, download maps and transport apps before arrival, as Wi-Fi can be inconsistent. Additionally, advance planning for lounge access through Priority Pass or DragonPass can save surprises.
Dining & shopping highlights
ABV offers 20 eateries, from international chains like KFC and Domino's Pizza to local favorites such as Bukka Restaurant and Taste of China. Don't miss the Coffee Bar for a quick caffeine hit before your flight. For shopping, explore Dufry and Heinemann Duty-Free stores, or dive into local flair at Naija Crafts and Abuja Art Market for unique souvenirs. Multiple telecom shops ensure you're well-connected once you hit Nigerian soil.
Lounges
The airport boasts nine lounges, notable among them the Pearl Lounge in the International Terminal, heralded for its comprehensive facilities including sleeper beds and showers. Another gem is the Airspace Lounge in the Domestic Terminal, where you can find business essentials like Wi-Fi and workspaces, particularly useful when public areas face A/C or power issues.
Insider tips
- Money: Parking at the airport is cash-heavy and costs ₦500 for the first hour; get dropped off at the curb to avoid paying more.
- Insider: The Pearl Lounge in T2 offers showers, beds, and full meals for around USD 35; worth it before an international haul.
- Time: Green Taxis are the most straightforward landside option; skip touts and head directly to the signed taxi rank.
- Quiet: The Airspace Lounge within the domestic terminal is a business traveler's go-to for a quiet spot, useful when public A/C fails.
- Avoid: Don’t plan to sleep overnight at ABV. There are no dedicated rest zones, and seating is unfriendly to sleepers.
- Local: Try the shuttle service to the city center mentioned by 2026 vloggers; it's budget-friendly and often overlooked.
- Time: Anticipate long security lines during morning and late-evening flights; arrive 2-3 hours early for hassle-free processing.