FAAN Board Chairman Commends Management, Calls for Synergy in Advancing Aviation Infrastructure
The newly inaugurated Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Board, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has expressed confidence in the agency’s leadership while calling for enhanced synergy among directorates and sister aviation agencies to ensure the smooth execution of national objectives.
Speaking during an inspection tour of key airport facilities, Ganduje acknowledged the efforts of FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, and her team in driving infrastructural improvements.
He noted that the agency was well-positioned for further growth but emphasised the need to address lingering challenges such as abandoned projects and outdated equipment.
“My impression is that the agency is blessed with a competent Managing Director and directors. I have seen signs of motivation, seriousness, and a strong achievement-oriented mindset among them. Of course, there are challenges, and we have started discussing how to resolve them,” Ganduje stated.
He highlighted concerns over long-abandoned projects that have been stalled due to rising costs and outdated equipment, some of which no longer meet modern technological standards.
However, he expressed optimism that the management team had devised solutions to mitigate these issues.
“Some of these projects were awarded many years ago, long before the current management came on board. However, we have seen that the team is already working on strategies to scale and repurpose them for optimal use,” he added.
Providing an update on FAAN’s ongoing initiatives, Managing Director Olubunmi Kuku revealed that the agency had commenced the deployment of new security equipment, including advanced explosive detection devices, to enhance safety across Nigeria’s airports.
“We promised to replace our security equipment, and we have now introduced a number of explosive detection devices to ensure that our environment remains safe and secure. This is a nationwide project,” she said.
She further disclosed that extensive terminal rehabilitation works were underway, particularly focusing on improving passenger facilitation, modernising VIP lounges, and enhancing accessibility for passengers with disabilities.
These upgrades, she stated, would be visible in the coming months, particularly at the Lagos and Abuja airports.
On FAAN’s strategic policy direction for 2025, Kuku reiterated the agency’s commitment to enhancing runway safety, in close collaboration with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
She also announced plans for the recertification of the Kano and Port Harcourt airports, following the successful recertification of two airports last year.
“We are also implementing key runway and terminal rehabilitation projects while ensuring that cost recovery and passenger experience remain at the forefront of our objectives. Feedback from passengers has been encouraging, though we recognise there is still more to be done,” she noted.
Responding to the FAAN MD’s presentation, Ganduje stressed the importance of collaboration between FAAN and other aviation agencies to prevent institutional rivalry that could hinder progress.
“Wherever multiple institutions have shared functions, if care is not taken, rivalry can emerge, leading to inefficiencies. I urge the MD and other heads of agencies to work together towards achieving the overall objectives of Mr President,” he advised.
He also called for greater coordination among FAAN’s directorates, highlighting the importance of teamwork in achieving organisational goals.
“No directorate can succeed without collaboration with others. There must be seamless synergy between departments to drive efficiency,” he said.
Furthermore, he urged FAAN personnel to cultivate a positive attitude towards work and prioritise organisational growth beyond financial remuneration.
He emphasised that adherence to timelines in project execution was critical to avoiding inflationary pressures, asset deterioration, and vandalism.
“If there is no clear timeline for project completion, delays will set in, leading to inflation, neglect, and eventual public apathy. Every contract must have a defined timeline to avoid unnecessary complications,” he warned.
Ganduje requested all FAAN directorates to submit written summaries of their functions and expectations, stating that this would enable him to provide informed guidance on key operational areas.
