BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
In a great show of support, the current management of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), under the capable leadership of Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has been lauded for its unwavering commitment to fostering significant improvements across federal airports nationwide.
During a meeting convened on August 13, 2024, at the New Terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Dr. Allen Onyema, Vice President of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, delivered an emphatic vote of confidence in FAAN’s leadership.
The gathering, which brought together top executives from 20 airlines, was initiated by FAAN to address crucial issues within the aviation industry, ensuring that stakeholders are well-informed and engaged in the Authority’s forward-thinking plans.
Mrs. Kuku, in her opening address, outlined her strategic vision centered on key priorities including Safety, Security, Culture Transformation, Digital Transformation, Service Quality, and Revenue Generation.
These initiatives, she emphasized, are critical for immediate implementation and are designed to propel FAAN towards becoming one of the leading airport management organizations in sub-Saharan Africa within the next decade.
She stressed the importance of collaboration with the AON to realize this ambitious goal, highlighting that synergy between the Authority and airline operators is crucial for elevating the standard of airport services across the country.
In his response, Dr. Onyema praised the FAAN management and the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo SAN, for their diligent approach to airport administration.
He remarked, “When the government errs, it is our duty to speak out, but what we are witnessing with FAAN is worthy of commendation. The commitment to excellence is palpable. This is not a time for discord but for collaboration.”
The meeting featured detailed presentations from several key FAAN officials, including Engineer Abiola Muniru Adejare, Director of Engineering Services; Captain Abdullahi Mahmood, Director of Airport Operations; Mr. Henry Agbebire, Director of Special Duties; and ACP Afegbai Albert Igbafe (Rtd), Director of Aviation Security Services.
Each director provided insights into ongoing efforts to enhance service quality and operational efficiency at the airports, demonstrating the Authority’s dedication to continuous improvement.
The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, was also present with her media team, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the event.
Among the resolutions adopted during the meeting were the commitment to more frequent and constructive dialogues between FAAN and AON, a pledge for swifter responses to airline correspondences, continued advancements in airport infrastructure, and the digitalization of revenue collection processes.
The Authority was urged to maintain its commendable efforts in delivering top-tier services, which have garnered positive feedback from both airline operators and passengers alike.
