The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has announced the urgent need for N580 billion to rehabilitate runways across the country’s airports.
According to The PUNCH, the managing Director Olubunmi Kuku disclosed this on Wednesday while receiving the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Ibrahim Kana.
Highlighting the deteriorating state of airport infrastructure, Kuku noted that most of the runways, constructed in the late 1970s, have exceeded their 20-25 year lifespan.
She emphasized that the ageing infrastructure is impacting operational efficiency and safety, necessitating significant investment.
“Our runways need urgent attention. They were built in 1978 and have outlived their lifespan. In total, we need N580 billion to rehabilitate them. Additionally, many FAAN facilities, including terminals, require major repairs and upgrades,” Kuku said.
Kuku outlined other pressing challenges facing FAAN, including outdated equipment such as fire tenders, generators, air conditioning systems, and conveyor belts. These, she said, are costly to maintain and reduce operational efficiency. She also pointed to increasing security risks and land encroachment issues, stressing the importance of perimeter fencing.
“Obsolete equipment and inadequate security measures pose significant risks. Encroachment on airport land due to the absence of perimeter fences is another major concern,” she added.
The FAAN boss assured stakeholders of the agency’s commitment to modernizing airport infrastructure. Plans include renovating terminals, expanding runways, upgrading navigational aids, and building a centralized head office in 2025 to improve operational efficiency.
“We need to be deliberate in addressing these issues. There have been too many haphazard projects. Our focus will be on enhancing facilities at major international airports while also improving regional airport capacity to meet growing passenger and cargo demands,” Kuku stated.
Kuku also revealed that FAAN will adopt innovative revenue strategies, prioritize public-private partnerships, and focus on sustainability.
“We aim to integrate environmentally sustainable practices, such as energy efficiency and waste management, into our operations. Staff training will also be intensified to address emerging security and safety challenges,” she explained.
Permanent Secretary Ibrahim Kana commended FAAN’s leadership and expressed confidence in the ongoing transformation within the aviation sector. He pledged the ministry’s continued support to sustain the momentum.
“The aviation sector requires continuous innovation and expertise. I encourage everyone to contribute ideas to improve the system. Together, we can elevate Nigeria’s aviation industry to global standards,” Kana said.
FAAN’s strategic plans for 2025 also include workforce expansion, improved employee welfare, and alignment with national and international aviation policies.
