BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The House Committee on Aviation has backed the newly inaugurated Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Governing Board, emphasising the board’s key role in driving efficiency, modernisation and strategic renewal across the nation’s airports.
The statement was delivered by the Committee Chairman, Abdullahi Garba, represented by the Vice Chairman, Festus Akingbaso, at the opening ceremony of the FAAN Governing Board Retreat, themed: “Future-Proofing FAAN: Leadership, Modernisation & Strategic Renewal.”
Speaking at the event, the Chairman congratulated the FAAN Governing Board Chairman, Baba Abdullahi Ganduje, describing his appointment as a well-deserved recognition of his exemplary leadership, vision, and dedication to public service.
“Your track record precedes you, and we have the highest degree of confidence in your capacity to catapult FAAN to a position of excellence, not just within Nigeria but across the African continent,” he said.
He added that the House Committee on Aviation stands ready to offer full cooperation to support the Board’s efforts in strengthening the aviation sector.
The Chairman highlighted the strategic importance of the retreat, noting that it presents an opportunity to chart a clear path for FAAN’s operational and infrastructural advancement.
He emphasized that the Board’s deliberations should focus on organizational restructuring to enhance efficiency, ensure accountability, and deliver seamless services.
He stressed that the Procurement Department should be strategically aligned under the Office of the Chief Accounting Officer in compliance with the Public Procurement Act of 2007.
According to the Chairman, this alignment will contribute to a leaner, more responsive structure and significantly improve service delivery across all FAAN functions.
He further underscored the non-negotiable nature of safety and security, urging the Board to continuously invest in world-class safety protocols across all airports and Nigerian airspace.
“The lives and assets of Nigerians must be safeguarded at all times,” he stated, stressing that global best practices should guide all security measures.
Sustainable aviation practices were also highlighted as a critical area for FAAN’s future.
The Chairman called on the Board to champion initiatives aimed at reducing carbon footprints, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring environmental sustainability within FAAN’s operations.
“In an era of increasing environmental consciousness, these measures are not just good practice—they are an imperative,” he said.
Passenger experience received equal attention.
The Committee Chairman encouraged FAAN to explore innovative ways to enhance service quality and ensure airports provide not only efficient transit but also welcoming, world-class experiences for travelers.
He called for strategies that would transform Nigerian airports into modern, passenger-focused gateways that reflect global standards.
Strategic partnerships were also highlighted as key to FAAN’s growth.
The Chairman urged the Board to cultivate robust collaborations with local and international stakeholders to bring in expertise, technology, and investment, thereby expanding FAAN’s capabilities and reach.
Concluding his remarks, the Chairman described the retreat as a unique opportunity for FAAN to lay a solid foundation for the future of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
He expressed hope that the deliberations would yield transformative strategies that align with the aspirations of Nigerians for a world-class aviation infrastructure.
“On behalf of the House Committee on Aviation, I wish you productive deliberations and a highly successful retreat. May your discussions propel Nigeria’s aviation sector to unprecedented heights,” he said.
The FAAN Governing Board Retreat 2025 is expected to set the tone for strategic decision-making, operational modernization, and strengthened leadership across Nigeria’s airports, reinforcing the country’s position as a growing aviation hub in Africa.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
