BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
In line with the federal government’s plans to revamp the economy and take it to greater heights, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, has said that the agency she oversees has since keyed into that vision.
In a recent media interview, she provided insights into her bold plans to revolutionise Nigeria’s aviation sector.
From airport concessions to tackling corruption, Kuku said the management remains focused in elevating transparency, safety and infrastructure development, to signal a new era for the country’s aviation landscape.
Kuku emphasised the vital role of public-private partnerships (PPP) in driving airport transformation, describing the approach as a “hybrid model.
“For commercial activities, we’re focused on commercialisation through concessions. The Minister has been working closely with FAAN to ensure the concession process is thorough and transparent.”
While acknowledging ongoing advisory work and reviews, she stressed, “The critical factor is ensuring alignment of goals with private partners, especially regarding employee welfare. The Honourable Minister has made it clear—there will be no job losses.”
Addressing recommendations from stakeholders on establishing an aviation finance bank, Kuku advocated for leveraging existing financial institutions.
“Rather than creating another institution, we need specialized financing and credit guarantees to support the sector,” she argued.
She called for innovative financial instruments, such as backstops and guarantees, to create a more enabling environment for aviation funding.
Kuku responded to questions about the ₦532 billion allocated for runway construction and rehabilitation with a detailed explanation.
“This figure encompasses the reconstruction of over 17 runways, as well as taxiways, aprons, perimeter roads, and fencing,” she clarified, highlighting the critical state of Nigeria’s airport infrastructure.
“Many of our runways have exceeded their lifespan of 20-25 years, and reconstruction is essential.” She also addressed the second Abuja runway project, noting, “The Honourable Minister is ensuring oversight to scrutinize costs affected by scope changes and exchange rate fluctuations.”
On the recertification of Lagos and Abuja airports by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Kuku underscored its significance.
“These are two of our critical gateways, and prior to their certification, we were operating below global standards,” she said.
The recertification process identified and resolved safety and infrastructure gaps, but Kuku acknowledged, “The work is far from over. We’re working closely with the NCAA to achieve the same for our other international airports.”
The FAAN boss took a firm stance on touting, bribery, and collusion within Nigeria’s airports.
“Our airports are tout-free zones.
We are putting in all necessary measures from our end to make sure that that stops as well, of course, with the continued support of the National Security Advisor and the Security Council which we meet. So it’s also our responsibility as Nigerians. You’ve heard me say it. You’ve heard the minister say, if any agency, including mine, comes to you within the airport premises and wants to engage in such activities, it is your responsibility to tell them no. If they ask you for funding, tell them no”
Highlighting ongoing collaborations with the National Security Advisor and Security Council, she noted, “We have prosecuted offenders and are using them as examples. Any passenger engaging in illicit activities will be held culpable, alongside officials.”
Her call to action was unambiguous: “If you are approached for illegal dealings, say no. We are relentless in our efforts to end these practices.”
Reflecting on her tenure, Kuku displayed resilience and determination. “I have stepped on toes and will continue to do so when necessary, but never at the expense of the Nigerian airport system.
“If I have to, I will step down and I will resign if I realise that it’s not working. But what is important for me is to make sure that I do what is right. I do the needful, largely in terms of making sure that they’re critical infrastructure projects in front of me, making sure that Nigerians are safe.
“I continue to say that safety is my priority in the industry, making sure that our runways, our pavements, our airfield lighting, are up to par, to make sure that we can do that so the thoughts around you know, stepping on toes or being overwhelmed, if I’m tired, I will get out of the job”, she said.
With safety as her top priority, she is focused on critical infrastructure upgrades, including runways and airfield lighting. “If the task ever feels insurmountable, I’ll step aside. For now, I am here to do what is right and ensure Nigeria’s airports operate at global standards.”
