The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has marked her first anniversary in office with reflections on an impactful and transformative year.
Speaking with gratitude, she described the past year as a thrilling journey fueled by the unwavering dedication of her team and the support of key stakeholders.
Mrs. Kuku attributed the year’s successes to the collective commitment of FAAN’s staff and leadership.
“It’s not just about the work we’ve done but the spirit with which we’ve done it,” she noted, acknowledging the sacrifices and passion that have defined her tenure.
She expressed deep appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s trust in her ability to lead FAAN, and for the guidance of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN.
Gratitude was also extended to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, as well as the entire ministry staff for their support throughout the year.
Reflecting on notable achievements, Mrs. Kuku highlighted the recertification of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) in Abuja.
These milestones, she explained, represent FAAN’s unwavering commitment to safety and excellence, elevating Nigeria’s standing in global aviation. “This wasn’t just about meeting international standards; it was about setting new benchmarks,” she said, emphasizing how the achievement signals new opportunities for growth and collaboration within the aviation sector.
Infrastructure upgrades have also been a key focus. From the opening of Runway 18R to the renovation of airport terminals, these efforts have significantly improved the experience for travelers and staff alike.
Recognitions such as improved scores on the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) and SERVICOM rankings underscore FAAN’s strides in service efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Moreover, Nigerian airports have gained international acclaim, with the Airports Council International (ACI) recognizing Abuja and Port Harcourt airports for excellence in emergency management and resilience during the ACI Africa Annual General Assembly in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Mrs. Kuku underscored the importance of staff development as a cornerstone of FAAN’s success. Investment in comprehensive training programs has yielded tangible results, including fewer safety incidents and enhanced operational efficiency.
These advancements, she said, reflect the dedication and professionalism of FAAN’s workforce and underscore the organization’s focus on fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Personal encounters have also shaped her journey. Mrs. Kuku recounted inspiring interactions with employees and travelers, such as a young Aviation Security (AvSEC) officer whose pride in his work underscored the transformative impact of FAAN’s efforts, and a traveler at NAIA who commended the positive changes in staff attitude.
These moments, she said, reaffirm the importance of FAAN’s mission and the tangible difference it makes in people’s lives.
Looking ahead, Mrs. Kuku outlined a clear vision for the future. Priorities include enhancing the customer experience, advancing staff development, and maintaining the highest safety standards. “Our journey is far from over,” she stated, expressing excitement for the opportunities ahead.
She affirmed FAAN’s commitment to innovation and adaptability in meeting the evolving needs of the aviation industry.
As FAAN enters a new chapter, Mrs. Kuku emphasized the importance of teamwork and collective vision.
“Together, we will continue to push boundaries, set new standards, and achieve great things,” she concluded, expressing confidence in the organization’s trajectory and gratitude for the support that has fueled its success.
