The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, recently appeared on TVC Beyond 100 Days, where she addressed the state of the aviation sector in Nigeria. Acknowledging the challenges facing the sector, she highlighted ongoing efforts to resolve key issues and improve the country’s airports.
Speaking during the interview, Mrs. Kuku admitted that there has been significant decay in the aviation sector over the years. However, she stated that the focus has shifted from discussing the problems to actively working on solutions. she noted that one of the major setbacks is the frequent pauses in ongoing projects whenever a new government comes into power.
Mrs. Kuku shared that some immediate gaps have been addressed. “The airports are now cleaner, more spacious, and the staff are friendlier,” she said, emphasizing that these improvements are just the starting point.
Key Improvements in Airports
Highlighting specific achievements, Mrs. Kuku said a lot of progress has been made at the Abuja airport. “The airport, which used to be poorly lit and congested, now has better lighting, improved accessibility for people with disabilities, functional toilets, and ongoing expansion projects.” She added that similar upgrades are being carried out in airports across northern and southern Nigeria.
Debate on Non-Thriving Airports
On the topic of potentially shutting down underperforming airports, Mrs. Kuku rejected the idea, referencing the financial concept of sunk cost. “Instead of closing these airports, we should increase investment to rehabilitate them,” she explained. She stressed the importance of evaluating the economic viability and social impact of airports before making decisions.
Strategic Focus Areas for Improvement
Mrs. Kuku outlined four main focus areas to enhance the state of Nigerian airports:
1. Increasing Economic Activities Around Airports
He emphasized the importance of driving economic growth around airports. Mr. Kuku explained that FAAN is collaborating with the Ministry of Aviation, state governments, and commercial teams to boost cargo activities. He referred to the potential of agro-based cargo, saying, “We are ensuring a value chain system for cargo, from production to export.” He added that FAAN is working with stakeholders to establish infrastructure for packaging, logistics, and testing facilities to support cargo operations.
2. Improving Infrastructure Linkages
Mrs. Kuku highlighted the need for better infrastructure connectivity to airports. For instance, the Abuja airport benefits from a rail line that terminates at its premises. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with the Lagos State Government about a road project connecting Alimosho to the Lagos airport, which would enhance accessibility and productivity.
3. Establishing Transit Hubs
Mr. Kuku identified Lagos and Abuja as priority locations for establishing transit hubs to support cargo operations. These hubs will play a critical role in optimizing airport efficiency and economic activity.
The FAAN Managing Director also discussed the ongoing process of concessioning airports, emphasizing the need to find the right private partners who share similar goals. she assured that the interests of workers would be protected, with no job losses expected. “We are in the project development stage to ensure the concession process is transparent and beneficial,” she said.
