Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), revealed that FAAN facilities underperformance is a significant issue. Moreover, she told unions that government cannot provide the investment needed to sustain the aviation sector in Nigeria. She said these during the just concluded Airport Business Summit, while discussing the challenges FAAN faces and its strategies for overcoming them.
Kuku cited Port Harcourt and Abuja airports as examples of regional facilities underperforming. She expressed her disappointment with Abuja’s condition, calling it a major issue. “I walked through Abuja Airport six weeks ago and was disappointed. However, I am committed to driving improvements,” she said.
Regarding Port Harcourt, Kuku noted the limited number of international flights. “Majority of our facilities are operating below capacity, which is very clear. Now, let’s move from regional to domestic terminals,” she stated. “Minna currently employs about 122 staff, yet no commercial flights are operating from the airport. Despite this, there are positives.”
She added, “Due to recent engagements, there have been discussions with local airlines about developing routes for these smaller markets.”
FAAN is actively seeking approvals for incentives to attract airlines to smaller airports. “We need approvals for concessions on landing and parking fees at smaller airports. This approach will help alleviate congestion at major hubs like Lagos,” Kuku explained.
Kuku also highlighted Nigeria’s aviation opportunities, emphasizing the need for an effective operating model, infrastructure development, and technological innovation.
Addressing union concerns about private sector involvement, Kuku acknowledged their fears regarding concessions. “Whenever I discuss private sector participation with the union, they express fears about concessions. These concerns are valid, but the investment required to sustain Nigeria’s aviation sector cannot come from the government alone. It is simply impossible. We need to explore effective private sector models and establish legal frameworks that benefit FAAN while protecting the sector.”
She proposed various models, including joint ventures and management contracts, as potential solutions. “Global examples show that, despite challenges, successful concession models exist. We need to adapt these models to our needs,” Kuku concluded.
