Stakeholders Applaud Transformative Leadership of FAAN MD as She Marks One Year in Office
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s aviation industry have lauded the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, for her remarkable achievements in just one year at the helm.
This commendation came during a ceremony held on Wednesday at FAAN’s headquarters in Lagos, marking her one-year anniversary in office and the December edition of the MD’s Quarterly Award for Excellence.
The event, which drew senior officials and key industry stakeholders, highlighted the transformative strides made under Mrs Kuku’s leadership.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr Henry Agbebire, FAAN’s Director of Special Duties, described the milestone as a celebration of dedicated service.
He noted that Mrs Kuku’s visionary leadership has redefined operational excellence within FAAN.
“Her contributions have been instrumental in transforming FAAN into a model of operational efficiency, with significant achievements in safety, security, and passenger facilitation,” Agbebire stated.
General Manager, Safety, Mr John Okezie Ekpe, commended Mrs Kuku’s prioritisation of safety, noting that her commitment has led to the establishment of a robust safety culture across the organisation.
Ekpe outlined key accomplishments, including the introduction of a clear formal safety policy, enhanced regulatory compliance, comprehensive safety training, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Additional praise came from FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs Obiageli Orah; Director of Aviation Security (AVSEC), Mr Albert Afegbai; and Assistant General Manager, Safety OSH, Mr Oguche Samuel Enejo.
They acknowledged Mrs Kuku’s dedication and the significant progress achieved under her administration.
In her remarks, Mrs Kuku expressed gratitude to FAAN staff, directors, and the management team, as well as her appreciation to God for the opportunity to lead.
“It is not just the work we have done but the spirit in which we have done it together,” she said. “I am grateful for the sacrifices. Thank you for being the force behind the success.”
Mrs Kuku also extended her gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for their unwavering support. She emphasised that their backing has made her work more seamless.
“I want to thank Mr President and the Honourable Minister for their encouragement and support. Their words and actions have been instrumental in the progress FAAN has made this year,” she added.
Looking ahead, Mrs Kuku outlined plans for further improvements in the aviation sector.
She noted ongoing safety initiatives aimed at returning major airports to Category Two certification and enhancing both landside and airside infrastructure.
“Over the next few months, we will focus on landside improvements and airside developments. We are upgrading passenger experiences through automation and equipment upgrades at both primary and secondary airports,” she said.
Mrs Kuku also assured travellers of improved services during the festive season, with significant upgrades, including new aviobridges and conveyor belts, scheduled for next year.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the MD’s Awards to outstanding FAAN staff.
Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Manual and Aerodrome General Safety Handbook were officially launched, marking another milestone in FAAN’s commitment to operational excellence.
With just one year in office, Mrs Kuku has set a solid foundation for growth and innovation within FAAN, earning the admiration and support of stakeholders across the aviation sector and beyond.
