Nosa Aituamen
The Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, says continuous learning and professional development is key within the aviation sector.
Speaking at the Airport Management Professional Accreditation Programme, AMPAP, Alumni Meet and Greet in Lagos, Mrs. Kuku reflected on her enriching experience with AMPAP, describing it as both insightful and engaging.
She stated that beyond the course material, the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues, exchange ideas, and understand diverse perspectives had been invaluable.
“The most critical takeaway for me has been learning how my colleagues identify challenges and approach problem-solving”.
Mrs. Kuku praised AMPAP’s practical approach, which combines theoretical learning with real-life case studies.
This method, she noted, provides participants with a clearer understanding of how to apply knowledge to real-world situations, especially in managing airport operations effectively.
Addressing the structure of the programme, she encouraged participants to remain committed to completing the required modules, which include three mandatory courses and two electives.
Mrs Kuku urged them to plan their schedules carefully and stay dedicated to the journey.
“This programme is globally recognized, and I encourage everyone to remain deliberate about achieving completion,”.
In her opening remarks, Board Member representing Africa in the AMPAP IAP Alumni Group, Mrs. Oluwasola Awe, commended the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for its steadfast investment in professional development.
Giving a brief history, she said, FAAN’s involvement with AMPAP began in 2008, but the program initially faced logistical challenges and shifting priorities.
However, perseverance paid off according to her, when three determined individuals, Emmanuel Chidera, Kabir Yusuf Mohammed, and Vivian Meyanga successfully completed the program in 2014.
Their resilience, Mrs. Awe noted, exemplifies the dedication required to achieve lasting success.
Since then, FAAN has emerged as a leading contributor to Nigeria’s growing pool of International Airport Professionals (IAPs).
She disclosed that, out of Nigeria’s 46 certified IAPs, 41 are FAAN staff, solidifying the country’s status as a leader in airport management across Africa.
“This is a remarkable achievement, placing Nigeria at the forefront of airport management expertise in Africa”.
Nigeria now ranks alongside South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania as key players in this field, with 159 IAPs collectively across 23 African nations.
Mrs. Awe reiterated that the aviation industry must remain proactive in addressing future challenges, particularly with artificial intelligence rapidly reshaping global industries.
Citing the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, the AMPAP Alumni board member warned that nearly 40% of today’s skills risk becoming obsolete, stressing that continuous learning and strategic leadership are crucial for staying ahead.