The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has launched its 2025 Safety Week with a strong message on the importance of emotional intelligence, communication, and teamwork in ensuring aviation safety across the country.
Managing Director/Chief Executive of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, delivered the message during a press briefing in Lagos on Monday, November 10, 2025, as part of activities marking the annual Safety Week themed “Navigating Conflicts for a Safer Aviation Industry in Nigeria.”
She said the theme underscores FAAN’s ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration, professionalism, and a culture of respect within Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem.
“Aviation safety does not depend solely on technology; human factors such as communication, trust, and teamwork play a crucial role,” Kuku said. “Where conflict arises, safety can be jeopardised. That is why this year, we have chosen to focus not just on compliance but on cultivating emotional intelligence, conflict management skills, and a culture of respect across all levels of the industry.”
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The 2025 Safety Week initiative, she explained, was designed to strengthen how aviation professionals handle disagreements, stress, and diverse opinions, especially in high-pressure environments where clear communication can mean the difference between safety and risk.
“By equipping our workforce with the necessary tools to de-escalate tensions and foster understanding, we are actively building a safer and more resilient industry,” she added.
Mrs. Kuku acknowledged recent incidents at airport terminals, saying FAAN’s proactive approach seeks to prevent recurrence through better staff engagement and conflict management training.
She reaffirmed FAAN’s vision of being counted among the world’s leading airport groups that deliver safe, secure, and efficient airport facilities and services.
“This effort aligns with global best practices and FAAN’s vision of excellence and accountability: to be among the world’s leading airport groups,” she said. “We are transforming our airports into dynamic, customer-centred hubs that showcase Nigerian culture, leveraging technology, and fostering partnerships to enhance infrastructure and operational excellence.”
The FAAN boss also stressed that safety in aviation is a collective responsibility that involves everyone across the value chain.
“Every voice in aviation matters, from passengers to cabin crew, from air traffic controllers to engineers, and all the way to management; each contributes to the integrity and safety of our industry,” she said.
Mrs. Kuku commended the media for its vital partnership in spreading awareness of aviation safety and conflict resolution practices.
“I appreciate the role of the media in disseminating these messages to the public and industry stakeholders,” she said. “Your partnership is vital in amplifying the importance of proactive conflict resolution as a cornerstone of aviation safety.”
Following the briefing, FAAN will host a special interactive session on Safety Management Systems (SMS) with its Directors to reinforce international best practices.
Mrs. Kuku also announced that Safety Week activities would continue with an Executive Forum scheduled for Wednesday, November 12, 2025, where further discussions will focus on embedding emotional intelligence and effective conflict resolution in FAAN’s operations.
She expressed confidence that the week’s outcomes will strengthen Nigeria’s airport safety framework and reinforce FAAN’s commitment to operational excellence.
“Thank you once again for being here with us and for your unwavering support in helping to shape a safer and more collaborative aviation industry,” she concluded.
