The Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) is fully operational, with ambitious plans underway to significantly boost its revenue generation, particularly from non-aeronautical sources.
This was disclosed by the Airport Manager, Comrade Ahmed Danjuma, in a chat with aviation reporters, who affirmed the airport’s current serviceable status and outlined key strategies for its advancement.
He confirmed that both the local and international terminals are fully operational.
Domestic airline services, including Maxair, Air Peace, Rano Airlines, United Nigeria, Umza, and Aerocontractor 36, are currently running from the old international terminal while the usual Dankabo domestic terminal undergoes extensive renovation.
The international wing hosts Qatar Airways, Saudi Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Egypt Airlines, and Max2, all operating smoothly with minimal complaints.
Infrastructure Development and Challenges
The airport manager addressed the state of the infrastructure, acknowledging the challenges associated with older structures.
He noted that the old international terminal, in use for domestic flights, has faced issues such as roof leakages impacting the ceiling (POP). While palliative measures are in place, a comprehensive re-roofing project is planned as a long-term solution.
“An old structure’s maintenance is always very difficult,” Comrade Danjuma stated, emphasizing the commitment to ensuring comfort for passengers.
He added that the cooling system in the old terminal, comprising machines nearly 17 years old, is also being addressed.
While the waiting lounge cooling is largely fixed, efforts are now focused on the concourse and check-in areas, awaiting the completion of the new Dankabo terminal for a more permanent solution.
A significant infrastructural development on the horizon is the resurfacing of the runway, which has outlived its lifespan since 2011.
“The MD has assured us that Kano has been captured for resurfacing,” he said, indicating that contractors have already commenced preliminary assessments. Fire tender services are also robust, with three serviceable units available, ensuring operational safety.
Passenger and Cargo Traffic Update
Detailing the airport’s traffic figures, Comrade Danjuma provided statistics for April.
For domestic operations, MAKIA recorded 20,472 inbound passengers and 21,278 outbound passengers. International traffic saw 18,687 inbound passengers and 6,787 outbound passengers.
Cargo movement for the same period was substantial, with 16,176 tons handled domestically. International cargo recorded 788,359 units for import and 161,367 units for export.
Aggressive Push for Non-Aero Revenue
A major focus for the airport management is the aggressive pursuit of non-aeronautical revenue. Comrade Danjuma proudly announced that the airport significantly surpassed its 2024 revenue target of N17.3 billion, generating over N20.83 billion last year, a surplus of N3.8 billion. The first quarter of the current year also shows promising results.
“Kano Airport is strategically located at the heart of the city,” he noted, highlighting its proximity to businesses as a key advantage.
He plans to leverage this by inviting more investors to establish business outlets and utilize available land within the airport premises. Discussions have already begun with local business owners.
Specific initiatives include reactivating the abandoned private lounge through partnerships with private operators, developing massive land for car parks and shops, and a recent agreement to build a hotel within the domestic terminal site.
“Our focus will be on the non-aero… I want to use this opportunity to ensure that whatever I can do within my means, to ensure that I can be able to provide the money to the businesses that are providing the land,” he affirmed, projecting visible and economically impactful changes in the shortest possible time.
Stakeholder Relations and Staffing
The Airport Manager described concessionaires and auxiliary service providers as “very cooperative,” reporting no significant issues regarding non-payment or regulatory compliance.
He emphasized a policy of vigorous stakeholder engagement to foster mutual understanding and support, ensuring smooth operations.
MAKIA currently boasts a staff strength of 1,255 personnel. On the issue of transportation, the MAKIA airport manager acknowledged the high cost of shuttle services and revealed plans to introduce a dedicated shuttle bus for staff.
He added that, more operators are being encouraged to register as shuttle providers to introduce competition and drive down prices for the public.
The completion of the Dankabo domestic terminal is eagerly anticipated, with promises from the Managing Director that it will be fully operational within “two or three months.”
This, Comrade Danjuma believes, will unveil “the beauty of Kano airport and the seamless operations that we are going to give to our customers.”
