…..Unveils Plans for Airport Modernization, Public-Private Partnerships
The Nigerian aviation sector is undergoing a transformation, with plans to revamp airports and meet international standards.
Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), spoke in a television interview about the challenges facing the sector and the strategies being adopted to address them.
Mrs. Kuku agreed that the sector has faced decay, but emphasized the need to focus on fixing the problems rather than dwelling on the past.
She highlighted the importance of continuity in implementing projects, citing the need for a seamless transition between administrations.
To address the challenges, Mrs Kuku said, FAAN has implemented several initiatives, including minor rehabilitation works at airports, which have resulted in cleaner and friendlier facilities.
Also the agency has also focused on improving infrastructure, including lighting, seating arrangements, and conveniences such as better access for people with disabilities.
Regarding the viability of Nigeria’s airports, Mrs. Kuku emphasized the need to prioritize economic activity, tourism, and business activity around the airports.
She highlighted the importance of cargo, particularly in the areas of agro and pharma, and the need to establish transit hubs to drive economic growth.
On the issue of public-private partnerships, the FAAN helsman emphasized the need for a hybrid model, which would allow for commercialization of airport activities while ensuring that the private sector partner shares the same goals as the government, stressing the need for specialized financing and credit guarantees to support the sector.
Mrs. Kuku also addressed the controversy surrounding the runway construction project at Abuja airport, which has been criticized for its high cost.
She clarified that the project includes not only runway construction but also perimeter roads, fencing, and other infrastructure, and emphasized the need for a safe environment for airside operations.
Regarding the recertification of Lagos and Abuja airports by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, Mrs. Kuku emphasized the importance of meeting global standards and the need for ongoing work to ensure optimal standards.
“I have stepped on toes. I’m still tapping on stepping on toes. I do know that I need to do that with caution, but definitely not at the jeopardy of the Nigerian airport system. If I have to, I will step down and I will resign if I realize that it’s not working. But what is important for me is to make sure that I do what is right. I do the needful, largely in terms of making sure that they’re critical infrastructure projects in front of me, making sure that Nigerians are safe”.
On the issue of corruption and bribery at airports, Mrs. Kuku spoke tough, stressed the need for a zero-tolerance approach and the importance of Nigerians reporting any illicit activities to the authorities.
Mrs. Kuku promised her commitment to reforming the aviation sector and meeting international standards, despite the challenges and resistance she has faced.
She harped on the need for caution and careful planning, but was willing to step on toes to achieve her goals.
