In a renewed push to boost Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and position the country as a regional aviation hub, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has urged stakeholders to invest in viable airport development projects backed by clear feasibility studies and market data.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, made the appeal during the Biennial FAAN Joint Trade Union Conference held in Abuja. She emphasised that well-documented business cases, feasibility assessments, and data-backed projections are essential to attract both local and foreign investors into Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“Aviation development must be driven by research, data, and strong project fundamentals,” Kuku said. “We cannot attract serious investors without showing clear returns on investment and sustainable operating models. That’s why FAAN has created the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services, but more must be done to develop comprehensive studies that investors can rely on.”
Cargo operations, according to the FAAN boss, remain a largely untapped goldmine in Nigeria’s aviation value chain. By investing in cargo infrastructure, modern freight processing systems, and logistics hubs, she believes the sector can significantly boost national revenues and create jobs. However, Kuku noted that these ambitions must be guided by reliable data, projected market demand, and sound business structures to reduce investment risks.
She called on private sector players, financial institutions, and development agencies to partner with FAAN in developing cargo terminals, hangars, and other key infrastructure that will strengthen Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem.
Beyond infrastructure, Kuku turned attention to internal reforms and employee wellbeing. She disclosed that FAAN has completed negotiations on a new set of conditions of service for staff, in collaboration with union representatives. These revised terms are expected to be submitted to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development for ratification.
“We are also reassessing our staff training plans and international travel budgets to allow for broader participation,” Kuku said. “Inclusiveness, equity, and empowerment are essential to employee morale and performance.”
Kuku acknowledged that medical care for staff remains a pressing concern. To address this, FAAN is exploring partnerships with healthcare providers to improve access to quality medical services for airport workers across the country.
She also revealed plans to renovate staff quarters in several locations and procure operational vehicles to aid airport operations, improve mobility, and boost security.
In a bid to improve the efficiency and transparency of airport management, the FAAN MD announced the introduction of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for airport managers and departmental heads. These metrics will be used to monitor progress, evaluate efficiency, and foster a performance-driven culture throughout the organisation.
“I believe in accountability through data. We must all be held to measurable standards that reflect how well we serve our passengers, stakeholders, and the nation,” she stated.
Kuku thanked the aviation unions for their continued cooperation and constructive engagement. She urged stakeholders to use the conference as a springboard to drive strategic reforms in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“This platform allows us to deliberate on just culture—where fairness is integrated into safety practices—and just transition, which ensures that our move towards sustainable aviation is equitable and inclusive,” she said.
Kuku reaffirmed FAAN’s commitment to ongoing dialogue and collaboration with labour unions, stakeholders, and the broader aviation community.
“Our doors remain open. Constructive criticism, honest dialogue, and actionable solutions are welcome. We all want a stronger FAAN, a more vibrant aviation industry, and a better Nigeria,” she concluded.
With over 30 airports and a growing number of international carriers, Nigeria’s aviation sector remains one of Africa’s most promising. However, it faces mounting challenges related to infrastructure deficits, staff welfare, operational bottlenecks, and global competition. FAAN’s renewed call for investment, backed by data, transparency, and collaborative action, could serve as a turning point in transforming the sector into a sustainable driver of national development.