BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Federal Government, through the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has reiterated its unwavering commitment to enhancing the viability of Nigeria’s airports.
The commitment is recognised as a crucial driver for the success of the nation’s aviation sector.
Keyamo stated this while delivering the keynote address at the summit, themed “Addressing Airport Viability as a Key to Successful Aviation Business Ambition participants at the 9th Airport Business Summit and Expo in Lagos on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.
The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, emphasised the pressing need for sustainable, profitable, and efficient airport operations as the cornerstone of the aviation industry’s growth.
He highlighted the pivotal role airports play within the broader aviation ecosystem.
He pointed out that airports serve as economic hubs, linking cities, regions, and countries while facilitating the global movement of goods and people.
He underscored that the success of airlines and other aviation-related businesses is inextricably tied to the strength and viability of the airports they depend on.
Meribole further stressed that airport viability is not merely a priority but a necessity for any ambitious aviation enterprise.
He outlined several critical factors essential to achieving this viability, including sustainable financial models, operational efficiency, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and the strategic deployment of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).
Expanding on the broader significance of airports in national and regional development, Dr. Meribole remarked, “Airports are not just an aviation issue; they are a national economic imperative.”
He detailed the five focus areas of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, all geared towards enhancing airport viability.
These focus areas include sustainable financial models, infrastructure development, human capital development, and the adoption of eco-friendly practices and policies.
He called upon the delegates and experts present at the summit to work towards actionable plans that will propel Nigeria’s aviation industry into its next phase of growth, driven by strategic investments, innovative approaches, and collaborative efforts.
The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, amplified the indispensable role of collaborative efforts in ensuring the sustainability and success of the nation’s airports. In her presentation titled “Improving Airport Viability through Multistakeholder Engagement,”
she highlighted the growing importance of airports in a globalized world, where they serve not only as gateways to nations but also as economic engines, cultural connectors, and symbols of national pride.
“Airports are more than just infrastructure; they are vital components of socio-economic development,” she stated.
Mrs. Kuku further emphasised that airport viability extends beyond mere financial profitability, encompassing operational efficiency, safety, security, environmental sustainability, and customer satisfaction.
She stressed that achieving airport viability is a collective responsibility that cannot be fulfilled by any single entity.
She called for the active participation of all stakeholders to realize the vision of world-class airports in Nigeria.
Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Aeronautics and Cargo at Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, Mr. Remi Jibodu, highlighted the critical role of strategic partnerships and strict adherence to Service Level Agreements (SLAs) in ensuring the long-term viability of airports.
In his address, he underscored the importance of collaboration among various entities within the airport ecosystem, including airlines, ground handlers, cargo operators, and service providers.
“Partnerships form the bedrock of success in the aviation industry,” he stated.
“When built on mutual trust and shared goals, they can lead to innovations that streamline operations, enhance safety, and significantly improve the overall customer experience.”
Mr. Jibodu also stressed the importance of SLAs as frameworks that bind partnerships together. He explained that SLAs are more than just contracts; they are commitments to maintaining high standards of service and operational excellence.
SLAs, he added, provide clear benchmarks for performance, which are crucial for sustaining the efficiency and reliability of airport operations.
“When all parties are committed to meeting or exceeding standards, the result is reduced costs, higher customer satisfaction, and improved operational efficiency,” he concluded.
Earlier, the Convener of the Airport Business Summit, Mr. Fortune Idu, in his welcome address, described the Airport Business Summit and Expo (ABSE) as Nigeria’s only dedicated airport business gathering, modeled after the Airport Council International (ACI).
He noted that the summit focuses on implementing ACI reports, findings, and best practices in Nigeria to enhance airport performance and support air connectivity.
The three-day event featured exhibitors from various airports, ground handling companies, the Ministry of Health, and other sectors.
Awards and presentations were given to exhibitors and airport managers who have distinguished themselves in the industry.
