FAAN MD Outlines Strategic Vision for Nigeria’s Airports, Tackles Sectoral Challenges

In an insightful interview on Beyond 100 Days with TVC’s Adeniro Ademi, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, shed light on the progress and challenges within Nigeria’s aviation sector under the Bola Tinubu administration.

She detailed the agency’s efforts to enhance airport viability, infrastructural development, and operational efficiency, while addressing pressing issues like corruption and touting.

Mrs Kuku emphasised the need for continuity in infrastructure projects across Nigeria’s airports, citing previous lapses caused by leadership transitions.

She noted that FAAN had embarked on minor rehabilitation works to address immediate concerns.

“If you’ve travelled in the past 90 days, you would notice cleaner airports, improved lighting, and more spacious facilities,” she said.

Key interventions have included enhancing accessibility for persons with disabilities and ensuring functional conveniences like toilets, elevators, and escalators.

Citing Abuja’s domestic terminal as a prime example, Mrs Kuku stated, “Six months ago, it was almost like the hall of doom. Now, it’s lit up, the seating arrangements are better, and the space has been expanded.”

She revealed similar progress across other airports, including in the North, South, and Southeast.

Addressing the debate on the viability of Nigeria’s 30 airports, Mrs Kuku opposed suggestions to shut down underperforming facilities.

She argued that such airports provide crucial socio-economic benefits, stating, “Rather than shutting them down, we are focusing on increasing economic activity around them, particularly through cargo operations.”

She highlighted partnerships with state governments to transform airports like Kano, Jos, and Ogun into cargo hubs.

According to her, FAAN’s strategy involves integrating agro-products into the value chain to boost food security and export potential.

“This requires feeder systems, packaging, logistics, and testing labs to support cargo operations effectively,” she explained.

Mrs Kuku also underscored the importance of tourism and GDP growth in driving airport activities, alongside improved infrastructure linkages, such as road and rail networks, to enhance accessibility.

On airport concessions, Mrs Kuku supported a hybrid model combining public-private partnerships (PPP) and government oversight.

She disclosed ongoing reviews of concession processes to address issues such as job security for existing staff and financial frameworks.

“The Honourable Minister has made it clear that no jobs will be lost. We are in the project development stage to ensure alignment between private partners and national goals,” she stated.

In response to accusations of touting, bribery, and corruption at airports, Mrs Kuku reaffirmed FAAN’s zero-tolerance policy.

She announced the prosecution of culpable officials and stressed the shared responsibility of Nigerians to reject illicit activities.

“Our airports are tout-free zones. If approached for any illegal act, say no. This is a responsibility we must all share,” she said.

Mrs Kuku addressed controversies surrounding the N532 billion budget for runway construction and rehabilitation, clarifying that the sum covers 17 runways, including perimeter roads, fencing, and apron expansions.

“Runways have exceeded their lifespan of 20–25 years, necessitating reconstruction for safety,” she explained.

She also debunked the necessity of a specialised aviation finance bank, advocating instead for leveraging existing financial institutions with credit guarantees and other instruments to support the sector.

On the recent recertification of Lagos and Abuja airports, Mrs Kuku described it as a significant milestone, bringing the facilities in line with global standards.

She revealed ongoing efforts to secure similar certification for Nigeria’s other international airports in collaboration with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.

When asked about the enormity of her task, Mrs Kuku admitted to stepping on toes but vowed to prioritise critical infrastructure and safety.

“If I realise it’s not working, I’ll resign, but for now, my focus is on making sure Nigerians are safe and our airports are up to standard,” she affirmed.

Mrs Kuku’s detailed account highlights a determined push for reforms in Nigeria’s aviation sector, with a clear vision for sustainability, safety, and economic growth.