ASRTI Meets FAAN MD, Calls for Enhanced Airport Safety, Passenger Comfort
At a recent meeting with the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, the Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI) presented a series of recommendations aimed at improving safety and passenger comfort at Nigerian airports.
The meeting, held Tuesday – September 3rd, 2024, focused on key issues such as the enforcement of safety standards, maximising revenue opportunities, and enhancing infrastructure across the nation’s airports.
Led by its President, Air Commodore Demola Onitiju (Rtd), the ASRTI team commended Mrs Kuku for the improvements achieved under her leadership since assuming office.
However, they also emphasised the need for stricter enforcement of Service Level Agreements (SLAs) between FAAN and concessionaires, to ensure better services for passengers, particularly those with physical disabilities who require specialised facilities for accessing terminal lounges.
The ASRTI called for better regulation of concessionaires operating in newly commissioned terminals.
They proposed the introduction of a monitoring system to ensure that duty-free shop operators sell only approved items, in line with FAAN’s guidelines.
“In the interest of health safety for travellers and adherence to international best practices, it is important for FAAN to establish certification processes for retail shop operators,” said Onitiju.
Additionally, the ASRTI raised concerns about a rat infestation at the new terminal of Lagos airport, describing it as a significant health hazard.
The group also stressed the need for improved security at the airports, including the construction of a security fence in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.
They further proposed relocating the Lagos airport toll gate and establishing a dual-entry and exit system, which they believe would enhance FAAN’s revenue generation.
In her response, Mrs Kuku expressed gratitude for the ASRTI’s recommendations, commending the organisation’s dedication to improving the aviation industry.
She revealed that ongoing infrastructure projects already cater to the needs of physically challenged passengers, with a new elevator currently being installed.
She also confirmed that FAAN is revalidating concessionaire agreements and reviewing the activities of retail operators to ensure compliance with standards.
Additionally, security challenges at the cargo section are being addressed by FAAN’s Cargo Services Directorate.
Mrs Kuku highlighted the gap in fire simulator training for airport fire personnel, which is now being actively resolved.
She further explained that her administration had successfully engaged the Lagos State Government in discussions to repair the dilapidated road linking FAAN’s Training School to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
Regarding large-scale airport projects, such as the perimeter fencing of major airports, Mrs Kuku noted that these require federal government support due to their cost, although some progress has already been made.
Mr Henry Agbebire, FAAN’s Director of Special Duties, assured the ASRTI that steps are being taken to address the rat problem, which has been an ongoing concern.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Mrs Kuku presented a plaque of appreciation to Air Commodore Onitiju, who in turn presented a book titled “Aviation Round Table @20, The Journey So Far”, chronicling the achievements of the ASRTI over the years.
ASRTI is Nigeria’s leading aviation non-governmental organisation, dedicated to advancing the aviation sector through consistent collaboration with the government and knowledge-sharing with stakeholders.
Its members include professionals with decades of experience in aviation and related industries, as well as corporate entities within the sector.
