BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs.
Olubunmi Kuku, has harped deeper investments in the air cargo sub-sector as it holds enormous potential in boosting the revenue of the Authority and ultimately stimulating growth of the Nigerian economy.
She said the investments will be made to allow air cargo to drive the export of perishables and earn handsome revenue for the government.
Kuku said with this design, FAAN will be able to cut back, if not totally save the country N3.6 trillion lost annually to perishables.
Mrs. Obiagheli Orah, the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer of FAAN said the MD stated this on Monday, March 11, 2024, while speaking to reporters after the commissioning of the newly-refurbished Bola Tinubu International Airport, Minna.
Kuku, who represented the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, at the occasion, thanked the Niger State Governor, Umar Mohammed Bago, for speedily completing the project, adding that it would surely contribute to the improvement of the state’s gross domestic product.
Her words: “The overhauling of the runway and construction of the passenger terminal in a very
short timeline was a daunting task that required much expense and synergy between all parties
involved. I am indeed grateful that this project will forever be seen as a symbol of our nation’s
dedication to advancing infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and fostering economic growth.
“We believe that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna, will serve as a gateway to
the world, facilitating trade, tourism, and collaboration on a global scale.
“At FAAN, one of our key aspirations is to help grow Nigeria’s economy through the facilitation of exports. We believe that with some investments in the right areas, we can put a huge dent in the N3.6 trillion worth of perishable goods lost annually.Therefore, we are excited that His excellency has promised to complete the Cargo and International Terminals within a short time.
“We encourage him to do so as we cannot wait to assist the ambitions of the state to be the biggest food producer and food exporter in the country.”
The FAAN boss added that renaming the Minna International Airport after President Tinubu was historic and befitting, given the policy direction and implementations by the current administration.
“This occasion not only pays tribute to a visionary leader but also signifies a new chapter in the development of our aviation industry.
“President Tinubu’s commitment to progress, innovation, and excellence is evident in all his policies and programmes and at FAAN, we are happy to have partnered with the equally visionary leadership of the Niger State Government, ably-led by Governor Bago, on this project.
“His commitment, drive and close monitoring contributed immensely to seeing this project delivered in record time and for this, we are indeed thankful,” she added.
She also thanked all those who have contributed to the success of the project, from the consultants to the FAAN engineers, construction workers, government officials and all FAAN staff involved.
