BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has emphasised the critical role of training for aviation journalists in deepening accurate and insightful reportage of the fast-paced aviation industry.
Speaking at a one-day workshop for journalists and FAAN’s Public Affairs and Consumer Protection media team, organised in collaboration with the Commonwealth Institute of Advanced Professional Studies (CIAPS), Kuku stressed the importance of professional development for effective reporting.
Represented by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, Kuku explained that education is a cornerstone for leadership and personal growth.
She highlighted that the training aims to equip journalists with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of the aviation sector.
“This training comes at a pivotal time and will significantly shape the careers of participants.
“As an organisation, we interact daily with passengers and are committed to providing them with exceptional customer service. To achieve this, we must possess the right training and skills.
Understanding customer body language, interpreting eye contact, and demonstrating emotional intelligence are critical in building trust and delivering quality service.”
The workshop, titled “Reporting Aviation and Airports”, was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of aviation operations and provide tools for professional and ethical reporting.
It also sought to bridge the gap between the aviation industry and the media, enabling reporters to cover stories with greater accuracy and depth.
The event targeted journalists covering aviation, transportation and business sectors.
Also included weee communication officers, public relations professionals, and industry analysts.
Participants were exposed to key insights into the operational, regulatory, and economic dimensions of the aviation industry.
The training also addressed investigative techniques for comprehensive reporting and methods to interpret aviation-related data and trends effectively.
Speaking at the event, Professor Anthony Kila, Director at CIAPS and a Professor of Strategy and Development, highlighted the indispensable role of the media in promoting growth within the aviation sector.
“The media is pivotal to the growth of aviation.
“The best way to inform users about this dynamic sector is through accurate and engaging reportage. Well-crafted articles not only educate consumers but also elevate public trust in the industry.”
Kila noted that journalists serve as a bridge between the aviation industry and the public, making their role vital in shaping perceptions and driving informed decisions.
A former Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Dr. Mike Omeri, praised Mrs. Kuku for her foresight in repositioning FAAN through innovative initiatives such as the training.
“This training aligns with FAAN’s broader vision of enhancing operations and services across Nigeria’s airports.
“As reporters, we have a significant role in supporting this new direction and helping the authority achieve its goals.”
The Chairman of the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC), Mr. Suleiman Idris, reiterated the importance of ongoing training for journalists, describing it as essential for professional growth and industry advancement.
“Training is a continuous process. The day we stop learning is the day we start stagnating,” Idris said.
“The knowledge gained from this workshop will undoubtedly enhance aviation reportage in Nigeria. It equips us to deliver more professional and accurate information, particularly in areas such as safety, security, and regulatory compliance.”
Idris also commended FAAN and CIAPS for their collaborative effort in organizing the workshop and called for the partnership to be sustained.
“We look forward to CIAPS becoming a key sponsor of our annual LAAC Conference held every July,” he added.
The training programne covered critical aspects of aviation reporting, including: Airport Operations and Management:
Aviation Incident Reporting by balancing sensationalism with sensitivity.
Another aspect was Legal and Regulatory Perspectives to understand aviation laws and compliance requirements.
Media and Airport Collaboration centred on building stronger partnerships for impactful reporting.
The workshop also featured networking opportunities, allowing journalists to engage with industry leaders and peers. Participants were encouraged to leverage these connections to foster collaborative and informed reporting.
Mrs. Kuku expressed her gratitude to CIAPS, Timbuktu Media, and all participants for their contributions to the programme’s success.
She reaffirmed FAAN’s commitment to fostering a motivated workforce, strengthening its relationship with the media, and delivering exceptional services to airport users.
