FAAN MD Unveils Strategic Vision for Aviation Growth, Courts Investors as FNAC 2025 Begins in Lagos
The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, on Monday delivered a compelling call for investment, collaboration, and sustained global engagement as she declared open the 2025 edition of the FAAN National Aviation Conference (FNAC). The conference, held at the Eko Convention Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, drew together an impressive assembly of aviation leaders, policy-makers, investors, state executives, and international partners.
Themed “Elevating the Nigerian Aviation Industry through Investment, Partnership & Global Engagements,” FNAC 2025 convened participants from across the global aviation spectrum. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, while the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana. Several governors, heads of aviation regulatory bodies, members of the National Assembly, and industry experts were present.
Global Aviation Expands as Nigeria Prepares for a New Phase
In her address, Mrs Kuku noted that global aviation is currently undergoing one of the most remarkable recovery phases in its history. Citing projections by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), she revealed that global passenger traffic is expected to climb to 4.99 billion this year, surpassing pre-pandemic figures. She added that Airports Council International forecasts a dramatic increase to 9.7 billion passengers by 2040.
“Africa stands at the core of this expansion,” she said. “As the continent’s largest market, Nigeria must seize the opportunities this growth will bring. The future of global aviation will be shaped by regions that prepare today — and Nigeria intends to lead.”
Challenges Framed as Investment Incentives
Kuku addressed Nigeria’s aviation challenges candidly — from infrastructure deficits to foreign exchange constraints and the urgency for modernisation. However, she reframed these obstacles as clear, defined opportunities for investors seeking meaningful returns.
“These challenges should not be seen as barriers but as Nigeria’s unique investment portfolio,” she emphasised. “ICAO confirms that every dollar invested in aviation yields nearly four dollars in economic benefit. This is a multiplier effect few sectors can match.”
She praised the Federal Government for its ongoing investment in six airports and several runways nationwide, describing these upgrades as foundational infrastructure that strengthens investor confidence and positions the sector for rapid expansion.
FAAN’s Reform Agenda Already Delivering Progress
Mrs Kuku highlighted FAAN’s dedicated push for transformation, anchored on six strategic pillars: customer-centred service delivery, operational efficiency, robust governance, workforce excellence, infrastructural renewal, and enhanced safety and security.
She revealed that in the past two years, FAAN’s ICAO-certified training school has equipped 7,320 personnel with essential aviation competencies — a record in the organisation’s history. She added that newly formed partnerships, such as the Memorandum of Understanding with ATOM Aviation Training Services of Dubai, represent major steps toward aligning Nigeria’s aviation workforce with global standards.
Several operational upgrades are also underway. These include the rollout of modern screening equipment at major airports, pilot biometric systems aimed at full automation of airport processes, and a wide-reaching internal culture change programme that has reshaped the attitudes of 4,000 staff members.
FAAN has additionally commenced the process of securing ISO certification, a move Mrs Kuku said would elevate the authority’s global ranking and increase investor trust. “Our goal is to achieve operational excellence that aligns with international expectations,” she said. “We are committed, deliberate, and fully prepared.”
Clear Investment Pathways Highlighted
To prospective investors, Mrs Kuku outlined strategic areas that offer significant returns. She identified infrastructure investment as a priority, particularly terminal expansion, cargo development, and the creation of airport cities capable of catalysing economic growth. She also emphasised the value of operational partnerships in areas such as ground handling, logistics, and airport management. Furthermore, she encouraged engagement in technological innovation — from biometrics and automation to sustainability-driven solutions such as green energy systems.
“The fundamentals are clear: Nigeria has the numbers, the market, and the momentum,” she said. “The question is not if the industry will grow, but who will choose to be part of that growth.”
Labour Unions Urged to Join the Transformation Journey
Acknowledging the crucial role of unions, Kuku appealed for their partnership in embracing the reforms ahead. She stressed that private investment would not replace workers but would instead create new opportunities across expanded operations.
“Private capital is the catalyst for new jobs, better infrastructure, and improved working conditions,” she assured. “We need the support of our unions to propel Nigeria’s aviation sector into its next phase.”
FNAC 2025 Positioned as a Deal-Making Arena
Mrs Kuku described FNAC 2025 as a “deal room” where ideas, capital, and policy direction will converge to shape the sector’s long-term strategy. Over the next two days, participants will engage with regulators, financiers, operators, and policy-makers to translate conversations into actionable commitments.
“To our international partners, your presence here signals confidence in our progress. Let us convert that confidence into investment and long-term partnerships,” she said.
She concluded with a rallying call: “Be bold. Ask the difficult questions. And more importantly, recognise the immense possibilities before us. Nigeria’s aviation future is bright — and the journey begins now.”
Mrs Kuku then formally welcomed guests to FNAC 2025, marking the start of sessions expected to define Nigeria’s aviation trajectory in the years ahead.
