Kuku Contrasts NGN580Bn Runway Rehabilitation with NGN532Bn 2nd Abuja Runway

Advances Concession Process Amid Reviews

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NGN580 billion runway rehabilitation, Kuku's impact through reforms
Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku

NGN580 billion runway rehabilitation project covers 17 runways nationwide and includes additional infrastructure such as perimeter roads, fencing, taxiway links, and apron expansion.


BY ANTHONY OMOH


The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has clarified the distinction between the NGN580 billion runway rehabilitation project and the NGN532 billion second Abuja runway initiative. Addressing concerns raised during discussions at the National Assembly, FAAN’s Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, emphasized the separate scopes, funding allocations, and objectives of these aviation infrastructure projects. She explained that public understanding of the NGN580 billion runway rehabilitation project is critical to appreciating its scale and complexity.  

“We have a number of runways in Nigeria today,” Mrs. Kuku stated. “There are 22 airports owned by the federal government, and we also support some state-owned airports. Many of these runways have exceeded their average lifespan of 20 to 25 years, with some stretching beyond 30 to 35 years. This necessitates a complete reconstruction.”  

Mrs. Kuku elaborated further, explaining that the NGN580 billion runway rehabilitation project covers 17 runways nationwide and includes additional infrastructure such as perimeter roads, fencing, taxiway links, and apron expansion. “This is not just about runways. It’s about ensuring a safe environment for all airside activities. The figure also accounts for construction elements critical to maintaining international aviation safety standards,” she said.  READ ALSO: Deconstructing Nigerian Airports: Can Mrs. Kuku Deliver a Turnaround?

Addressing misconceptions about the project, she added: “So I’ve seen some commentary where people are saying, ‘What do they need all this money for?’ I encourage you, please just look at Google. If you’re in the construction business or in the aviation business, try and understand what it means to build runways, taxiway links, and apron expansion work that we need to do.”  

On the other hand, the second Abuja runway project has faced scrutiny, especially regarding cost variations. “The project’s scope and pricing have undergone changes due to fluctuations in exchange rates and evolving specifications,” Mrs. Kuku explained. “The Honourable Minister has expressed discomfort with the figures provided and is ensuring rigorous oversight and scrutiny.”  

Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, disclosed that the Federal Government rejected the proposed N532 billion adjustment to the second Abuja runway project contract. “The variation represents a dramatic increase from the original contract sum of N90 billion in just two years,” he said. Keyamo also warned contractors of imminent contract revocation should they fail to provide satisfactory explanations for the cost escalation.  

In another development, FAAN reaffirmed its commitment to a hybrid concession model for airport operations, which Mrs. Kuku described as essential for improving operational efficiency. “A hybrid model is what we’ve clearly preached for, ensuring commercial activities are appropriately commercialized,” she stated. Notices of interest and intent regarding airport concessions have already been publicized, and advisory work on project development and economic feasibility is underway.  

“When it comes to concessions, finding a private sector partner is important, but aligning goals and addressing potential challenges—especially regarding employee welfare—is even more critical,” Mrs. Kuku added. She assured stakeholders that no jobs would be lost during the concession process, citing the Honourable Minister’s directive to prioritize worker protection.  

In conclusion, FAAN’s distinction between the NGN580 billion runway rehabilitation project and the NGN532 billion second Abuja runway project underscores its focus on enhancing aviation infrastructure nationwide. The former addresses the critical need for runway reconstruction and safety compliance across multiple airports, while the latter seeks to expand the Abuja airport’s capacity. Alongside these efforts, FAAN’s concession initiatives reflect its commitment to innovation, transparency, and inclusive development.  

 

 

 

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