The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has introduced four long CNG-powered buses to improve passenger mobility within airport premises, marking a significant step in enhancing the travel experience for users. The development is part of broader efforts to modernize Nigeria’s airports and improve operational efficiency.
Commitment to Improved Passenger Experience
FAAN Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, emphasized that the initiative aims to elevate the passenger experience and demonstrate FAAN’s dedication to ensuring world-class standards at Nigerian airports. Speaking on Friday, Kuku reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to modernizing airport facilities and ensuring Nigerians feel proud of their aviation infrastructure.
Kuku highlighted FAAN’s plans for further investments, stating, “We have expanded our facilities to meet future demands, which includes the operational use of terminal D. This move will help us decongest existing terminals and optimize the scheduling of flights and passenger processing.”
She also noted that FAAN is prioritizing upgrades to cooling systems, equipment, and overall infrastructure, targeting completion by 2025. These upgrades are intended to address both current and future capacity challenges.
Ministerial Endorsement of Airport Modernization Efforts
At the unveiling event, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, applauded the ongoing renovations as part of a comprehensive initiative to revamp Nigerian airports. Despite limited resources, FAAN has collaborated with private sector partners to achieve these improvements.
Keyamo specifically highlighted the remodeling of the E-Wing at the airport, which includes modern lighting, upgraded flooring, and enhanced advertising displays. “This remodelled E-Wing is a result of our collaboration with Hussling and the United Bank for Africa (UBA). The improvements are aimed at enhancing passenger satisfaction and projecting a better image for Nigeria,” he said.
The minister assured stakeholders that additional projects, including upgrades to the D-Wing departure and arrival areas, are on the horizon. He stressed the importance of maintaining a positive national image through well-maintained airport facilities.
Collaboration with Private Sector Partners
The renovation project has been significantly supported by the private sector, particularly through public-private partnerships. UBA’s General Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, underlined the critical role of private sector involvement in addressing national development challenges.
“This is not just about upgrading infrastructure. It’s about creating an environment that fosters growth and unlocks economic opportunities,” Alawuba stated. He reiterated UBA’s commitment to supporting subsequent phases of airport modernization and described the E-Wing refurbishment as the first step in a larger journey toward comprehensive airport reform.
Ensuring Smooth Reforms Through Inter-Agency Cooperation
Keyamo also commended FAAN’s collaboration with agencies such as Immigration and Customs, as well as the National Security Adviser (NSA), to ensure seamless reforms at the airports. He emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in improving passenger experiences and maintaining the nation’s reputation.
“We’ve updated the NSA on our initiatives and sought support to ensure all agencies work collaboratively for the benefit of passengers and the nation’s image,” Keyamo added.
Future Plans for Nigerian Airports
The new CNG-powered buses and remodeled facilities are part of FAAN’s broader vision to transform Nigeria’s airports into hubs of efficiency and innovation. As more terminals and services are modernized, these efforts are expected to enhance operational capacity, improve passenger satisfaction, and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
Alawuba summed up the broader implications of these efforts, stating, “This is just the first phase. The private sector must step in to complement government efforts, and UBA is committed to providing the necessary support.”
With these initiatives, FAAN and its partners are laying the foundation for a future where Nigerian airports meet international standards, offering a seamless and comfortable experience for travelers.
