FAAN Boss Applauds Aviation Surge as Lagos Airport Emerges Africa’s Fastest-Growing Hub
The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, has hailed Nigeria’s accelerating aviation growth, revealing that Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport recorded the fastest rise in air traffic movements among Africa’s leading airports.
Delivering the closing address at the ACI Africa Regional Conference & Exhibition 2026 in Luanda, Mrs Kuku celebrated what she described as a strong rebound in Africa’s aviation sector, while positioning Nigeria as a central player in the continent’s air transport future.
The conference, held under the theme “Stronger Airports, Stronger Africa,” brought together aviation stakeholders from across the continent to deliberate on the sector’s recovery and long-term sustainability. In her remarks, Kuku stressed that airports serve as vital economic engines, driving trade, tourism, job creation and regional integration.
“The future of African aviation will depend not only on infrastructure, but also on partnership, innovation, resilience, and the courage to think long term,” she said, while commending the Angolan government, airport authorities and the Airports Council International Africa Secretariat for hosting the event.
Highlighting Nigeria’s performance, Kuku disclosed that Lagos airport recorded an 11.8 per cent growth in air traffic movements in 2025, the highest among Africa’s top airports. In cargo operations, the airport also stood out with a 34.4 per cent increase, ranking highest within the continent’s Top 10.
She further revealed that both Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and Lagos airport ranked among Africa’s top 10 for domestic passenger traffic. Citing data from the Official Airline Guide, Kuku noted that Nigeria has emerged as Africa’s second-largest domestic passenger market, handling over 10.5 million passengers and recording a 10 per cent year-on-year growth.
“These are not just statistics,” she emphasised. “They reflect the growing strategic importance of Nigeria as a key aviation, logistics, and commercial hub on the continent.”
Looking ahead, the FAAN chief formally invited delegates to the next continental gathering scheduled to hold in Abuja from September 19 to 25, 2026. The event will focus on the theme “Next Gen Airports: Driving Performance and Resilience,” with emphasis on innovation, financial sustainability, and enhanced passenger experience.
“Hosting this next conference is both an honour and a responsibility,” Kuku said. “We look forward to welcoming you with the hospitality, energy and spirit for which Nigeria is proudly known.”
