The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria , FAAN, requires N580 billion for the rehabilitation of airport runways nationwide.
FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, made this known on Wednesday while hosting Ibrahim Kana, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
Kuku explained that many of the country’s airport runways, constructed in the late 1970s, have surpassed their intended lifespan of 20 to 25 years.
Additionally, she highlighted the deteriorating condition of other airport infrastructure, including terminals, which has been hampering operational efficiency and safety.
“The N580 billion is needed to repair the runways across all airports. Many of these facilities, including terminals and runways, are aging and require extensive repairs,” Kuku stated.
She pointed out that this aging infrastructure compromises both safety and operational efficiency, necessitating significant investments in modernization.
In addition to runway repairs, FAAN faces challenges with airport security, exacerbated by increased air travel and the growing risks of terrorist activities or other threats.
Kuku noted that encroachment on FAAN land continues due to insufficient perimeter fencing.
The authority also grapples with outdated equipment, including old fire tenders, generators, and malfunctioning conveyor systems, which contribute to high maintenance costs.
However, Kuku emphasized that FAAN is committed to modernizing airport infrastructure, with plans to renovate terminals, expand runways, and upgrade navigational aids.
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A major priority for 2025 will be the construction of a new, modern headquarters for FAAN to improve operational efficiency.
Critical upgrades will be focused on major international airports, and efforts will be made to enhance the capacity of regional airports to handle growing passenger and cargo traffic.
Kuku stressed the importance of addressing these challenges strategically, noting, “We must be deliberate about it. There have been many haphazard jobs and abandoned projects. The runways need major rehabilitation.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Kuku outlined FAAN’s strategic priorities, which include increasing revenue through innovative strategies and leveraging Public Private Partnerships to develop underutilized assets.
FAAN will also prioritize staff training in aviation security and safety to address emerging risks, upgrade its e-procurement systems, and align its goals with national aviation policies and international standards.
Environmental sustainability will be a key focus, with FAAN aiming to improve energy efficiency, waste management, and reduce carbon emissions through green airport initiatives.
The authority will also work to enhance its workforce strength, improve working conditions, and offer better employee benefits.
During the visit, Ibrahim Kana expressed confidence in the progress being made in Nigeria’s aviation sector, crediting FAAN’s strong leadership under Kuku.
He reaffirmed the Ministry of Aviation’s commitment to supporting FAAN in sustaining its developmental momentum.
“The aviation sector requires constant innovation and expertise, and I encourage everyone to contribute to improving the system. Together, we can elevate Nigeria’s aviation industry to global standards,” Kana stated.
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