Nosa Osula Aituamen
The Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has outlined plans to revitalize Nigeria’s airports and bring them up to international standards.
Acknowledging past neglect, Mrs. Kuku emphasized the importance of sustained efforts and project continuity across administrations.
Speaking in an interview, she said, immediate improvements have included minor rehabilitation works at numerous airports, resulting in cleaner, more welcoming environments.
While significant upgrades have been undertaken at Abuja Airport, addressing issues like inadequate lighting and limited space.
Speaking on the viability of airports, the FAAN boss, stressed the importance of maximizing existing investments.
While acknowledging the social impact of airports, she emphasized strategies to boost economic activity around them.
This includes: increased economic activity, improved infrastructure linkage,
establishment of transit hubs and focus on cargo, particularly agro and pharma exports.
Mrs Kuku reiterated the crucial role of public-private partnerships in airport transformation, adding that, concessioning process is underway, thorough reviews and careful selection of private sector partners are essential.
Addressing the controversy surrounding the N580 billion earmarked for runway construction, she clarified that this funding covers the reconstruction of over 70% of Nigerian runways, exceeding their 20-25 year lifespan.
She acknowledged the ongoing review of the Abuja second runway project, stressing the need for greater oversight and scrutiny of project scope and costs.
The FAAN MD assured FAAN’s commitment to combating corruption and touting at airports.
On the resistance to anti-corruption measures, she reiterated the agency’s zero-tolerance policy and warned passengers against collusion with corrupt officials.
Despite the challenges, Mrs. Kuku expressed her determination to drive necessary reforms within the aviation sector, noting that this may require difficult decisions and potentially stepping on toes.