FAAN MD Kuku Sets Strategic Business Development as Priority for Aviation Growth

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has reiterated her administration’s focus on strategic business development and capacity building as key drivers of sustainable growth in the aviation sector.

Speaking at the opening of the 2025 Biennial FAAN Joint Trade Unions Conference in Abuja on Monday, Kuku urged stakeholders to prioritise investments in commercially viable projects backed by data, feasibility studies, and strong business cases.

“For sustainable growth, we must focus on data-driven investments that deliver measurable returns,” Kuku said during her address at the Abdurahaman Danbazau Conference Centre, COCOS Hotel. She added that strategic planning is essential for building investor confidence and attracting funding to the sector.

Highlighting cargo operations as a crucial growth area, the FAAN boss noted the establishment of a Directorate of Cargo Development and Services but stressed that more technical support and evidence-based investment strategies are needed to fully harness the sub-sector’s potential.

Also addressing delegates, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, emphasised the role of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in tracking performance and ensuring accountability across airport operations. According to her, measurable metrics are vital for effective management and service delivery.

Kuku used the occasion to commend aviation union leaders from NUATE, ATSSSAN, and ANAP for their constructive engagement and cooperation with FAAN. She encouraged delegates to view the conference as a platform to shape a united and forward-looking aviation industry.

“This conference provides an opportunity to drive industry-wide transformation. Let us champion a ‘just culture’ that promotes fairness and accountability in safety, and a ‘just transition’ that ensures sustainable aviation growth,” she said.

Kuku reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to open dialogue, stating, “Our goal is not to fight over issues but to build consensus. Let us work together to protect jobs, improve service conditions, and strengthen the aviation sector through collaboration, not confrontation.”

The conference continues with technical sessions expected to produce resolutions aimed at guiding future labour-management relations and shaping policy implementation across Nigeria’s aviation industry.