First Female MD takes saddle at FAAN
Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku has etched her name in Nigerian aviation history as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) welcomes its first female Managing Director.
With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Kuku’s journey stands as a testament to her leadership, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the aviation sector.
Kuku’s academic prowess is as impressive as her professional achievements. A graduate in Finance from the renowned University of Illinois in 2000, she demonstrated early on her aptitude for intricate financial systems.
Continuing her educational pursuits, Kuku earned an MBA in International Finance & Strategic Management from DePaul University’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business in 2004, laying the foundation for a career marked by strategic insight and innovative thinking.
Before ascending to the top position at FAAN, Kuku honed her skills in impactful roles. As Vice President and Head of Visa Consulting & Analytics for Sub-Saharan Africa at Visa, she drove substantial growth in the region.
Her tenure as a Partner in Business Consulting at Ernst & Young showcased her ability to navigate and transform complex business environments, while her role as a General Manager at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency demonstrated her capability in steering organizations towards success.
Kuku’s influence extends beyond the corporate realm into strategic sectors of the economy. Her advisory role in Strategy & Infrastructure Development at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency and collaboration with prestigious international agencies such as the World Bank, African Development Bank, and USAID highlight her ability to work at the intersection of international development and strategic economic planning.
Her commitment to excellence is underscored by professional affiliations and certifications, including participation in the Executive Leadership Program at INSEAD Business School/Visa, fellowship in the Nigerian Institute of Business Development, membership in the National Institute of Marketing Nigeria, and Executive Education at Harvard Business School.
Appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kuku’s rise to the helm of FAAN is not just a career milestone but a historic moment in Nigerian aviation.
Known for her leadership skills, dedication, and innovation, she has set new standards in airport management. Beyond professional achievements, Kuku’s appointment breaks gender barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field, paving the way for future female leaders in aviation.
In her role as Managing Director, Kuku is tasked with spearheading initiatives for a safer, more consumer-centric aviation landscape in Nigeria.
Her leadership aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for a renewed and prosperous Nigeria, making her a beacon of hope and a model for aspiring leaders in the aviation industry and beyond.
Hence, she expressed commitment to her new role, stating, “I’m here to complement the good work you have all been doing and consolidate on the foundation that previous management has laid. We will pursue and deliver on all our obligations to the nation and the international community. Together with you all, we can make FAAN a greater institution than it already is.
“We shall be working within the framework of the Renewed Hope Agenda as enunciated by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and in accordance with the policy and program direction of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo, SAN.
“Under my leadership, revenue generation will be optimised and waste will be eliminated as much as possible. Staff welfare will also be a priority but I also expect the staff to be committed to put their best.
“As every institution is only as powerful as the human resources managing it, we will prioritise the improvement of institutional and human capacity. Working in collaboration with national and international bodies, we will promote the image of Nigeria and strengthen the network of FAAN.
“There is an urgency of yesterday in revving up our operations as we have fully entered the busiest season of the year for airline operations.
“To this end, we shall be interfacing with the various professional interests, sister agencies and partners to ensure we have smooth, safe and secure operations throughout the season. Let us do our jobs with patriotism and a smile on our faces, spreading the joy of the Yuletide.
“Let us join hands to build a FAAN that you will always be proud of. Our mission is to transform the agency into the most efficient and effective institution in Nigeria.
“As Management, we carry a huge responsibility to the nation, the flying public(s); the airlines; the international community. Join me to give our customers the best airport experience that is efficient, safe, secure and fun.”
