December 01, (THEWILL) – The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has received commendation for her strides in improving infrastructure and manpower development across the nation’s airports within her short tenure.
Yakubu Dati, a former Commissioner for Information in Plateau State and ex-General Manager, Public Affairs at FAAN, applauded Kuku’s achievements, describing her leadership as a testament to women’s capability in male-dominated industries.
Dati noted that under Mrs. Kuku’s stewardship, major Nigerian airports have undergone significant renewal and rehabilitation of critical facilities, with some advancing toward international certification by the International Civil Aviation Organization.
Abuja and Enugu airports have already achieved certification, while Port Harcourt, Enugu, and Kano airports are undergoing the process.
“For the first time, we have a woman at the helm of FAAN, and within just 11 months, she has achieved what hadn’t been done in over four years.”
“Her leadership has put Nigeria on the global aviation map, with FAAN receiving two awards at the Airport Council International (ACI) conference in South Africa. She has also been appointed board chairman of the Africa region of ACI. These are remarkable achievements within such a short time,” Datti remarked
Highlighting Mrs. Kuku’s commitment to training and safety, Dati revealed that she has facilitated the training of about 1,400 personnel, totaling over 2,000 man-hours, focusing on safety protocols for staff and stakeholders.
“Aviation is a highly regulated industry that thrives on people, processes, and technology. By prioritizing training, Mrs. Kuku has streamlined operations and achieved early results that are evident to all,” he said.
Dati also emphasized her efforts to meet ICAO regulatory conditions through infrastructure upgrades and technical manpower development.
According to him, Kuku’s focus on improving safety and security aligns with international standards, ensuring that Nigerian airports maintain high operational efficiency.
Dati credited the Tinubu administration for fostering greater development in the aviation sector, citing Nigeria’s improved ratings in the Cape Town Convention Aviation Working Group, which rose from 49 to 75 within a short period.
“Since this administration began, we’ve seen a removal of Nigeria from the list of non-compliant countries and a significant leap in international aviation ratings,” he added.
Managing 27 federal airports with funding derived primarily from just two or three major ones presents a unique challenge, Dati noted.
However, he praised Kuku’s ability to multitask and coordinate effectively, ensuring operational excellence across the system’s 10,000-strong workforce.
“She is focused on upgrading airport status, enhancing critical infrastructure, and fostering collaboration among agencies. Her ability to accommodate diverse opinions and drive teamwork is key to achieving success in such a massive system,” Dati concluded.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
