Since June 2023, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has been undergoing a radical transformation aimed at modernizing Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, enhancing operational efficiency, and creating an investment ecosystem that invites private sector participation. Under the leadership of Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the authority, has initiated projects that promise to elevate the standards of Nigerian airports, aligning them with global best practices. With strategic investments in infrastructure and technological advancements, FAAN is now setting the stage for a thriving public-private partnership (PPP) environment that will significantly shape the future of the nation’s aviation industry.
One of the key infrastructural milestones under FAAN’s leadership is the reopening of the 18R/36L runway at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos Closed for maintenance for nearly a year, the runway’s rehabilitation was completed in early 2024, resolving long-standing concerns over operational delays and aircraft congestion. This project is a reflection of FAAN’s commitment to addressing critical infrastructure needs, with similar projects underway at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
My understanding is that this project is part of FAAN’s broader effort to enhance airport infrastructure nationwide. Lagos’ airport alone sees over 7 million passengers annually, and the need for consistent upgrades is critical to Nigeria’s status as a regional aviation hub. A study of FAAN’s roadmap showed that this project is part of a multi-phase strategy aimed at ensuring compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, creating a solid foundation for private sector partnerships
In addition to runway improvements, FAAN has also undertaken rehabilitation work at other key airports, including the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. Expansion work on passenger terminals, baggage handling systems, and runway lighting systems has been pivotal in boosting capacity. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Nigeria is one of the largest aviation markets in Africa, and FAAN’s investments aim to solidify this position by improving operational efficiency and safety.
As FAAN’s Chief Marketing Officer and Business Developer, Mrs. Kuku has been at the forefront of championing private sector investment in airport management and development. Speaking at a panel discussion during the ongoing ACI Africa General Assembly in Johannesburg, she remarked, “To truly transform Nigeria’s aviation landscape, private sector participation is essential. We are creating a framework that encourages private investment in our airports, not only to enhance infrastructure but to drive innovation and customer-centric services. The future of aviation in Nigeria lies in public-private partnerships that align with global standards.”
FAAN is committed to expanding its public-private partnership model. Projects in the pipeline include the development of new cargo facilities at Enugu and Port Harcourt airports, alongside plans to build world-class passenger terminals at other regional hubs. Mrs. Kuku’s leadership has set an ambitious course, focusing on creating a sustainable aviation ecosystem that thrives on private investment, operational efficiency, and service excellence.
This emphasis on private sector involvement reflects a shift in FAAN’s strategic direction. In line with global trends, Nigeria is opening its airport infrastructure to private investment in areas such as terminal management, cargo handling, and ground services. These partnerships are expected to enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs, and bring much-needed innovation into the sector.
On the technological front, FAAN has ramped up efforts to digitize its operations. Digital tools are being deployed for real-time passenger tracking, improved data management, and streamlined revenue collection systems. Mrs. Kuku, during an aviation conference in July 2024, noted: “Our aim is to be at the forefront of technology adoption in airport management across sub-Saharan Africa. We are making strategic investments in digital tools that will allow us to provide safer, more efficient services to airlines and passengers alike”.
Passenger satisfaction has seen gradual improvement under the reforms initiated by FAAN. According to the 2024 Passenger Experience Report compiled by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the average wait time at immigration and customs at MMIA and Abuja airports has decreased by 15% since the introduction of automated border control systems in late 2023. This has contributed to positive feedback from both domestic and international passengers. In a recent survey by TravelPort, 68% of passengers rated their airport experience at MMIA as “satisfactory” or better, a significant improvement from the 51% rating in 2022.
Airline operators, too, have expressed optimism about FAAN’s direction. In particular, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) praised FAAN’s proactive approach under Mrs. Kuku. Captain Nuhu, the president of AON, commented: “The collaborative approach that FAAN has adopted under Mrs. Kuku’s leadership is commendable. There’s been improved transparency and engagement, which are essential for tackling issues such as operational delays and cost inefficiencies”.
These positive stakeholder reactions underscore the importance of FAAN’s reforms in fostering a conducive investment climate. The success of ongoing projects is being closely monitored by international investors, who are eyeing opportunities in terminal management, retail concessions, and other non-aeronautical services.
While FAAN has made commendable progress, significant challenges remain, particularly regarding Nigeria’s foreign exchange policies, which affect the repatriation of airline funds. Addressing these issues remains critical to sustaining the interest of foreign investors. FAAN has actively engaged with the Nigerian government to ensure that aviation stakeholders have access to forex for operational purposes, a move that has been welcomed by both local and international airlines.
FAAN’s transformation since June 2023 marks a significant step forward for Nigeria’s aviation sector. Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku’s leadership has not only improved infrastructure and passenger experience but has also fostered a welcoming environment for private sector participation.
For aviation stakeholders, both in Nigeria and globally, FAAN’s progress offers a promising outlook. With sustained investment in infrastructure and technology, coupled with strategic private sector involvement, Nigeria is poised to become a major player in the regional and global aviation markets. The groundwork laid in this period, particularly in terms of creating a thriving investment ecosystem, is set to define the future of Nigerian aviation for years to come.
