Soaring High: How Olubunmi Kuku Leads FAAN Into a Strong 2026

Under the visionary stewardship of Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has transitioned from routine operations to strategic transformation, reshaping the nation’s airport infrastructure, improving service delivery, and reinforcing Nigeria’s position on the global aviation map.

With tangible progress across multiple fronts and ambitious plans for 2026, FAAN’s momentum reflects a renewed commitment to efficiency, passenger comfort, and national economic growth.

Delivering Tangible Infrastructure Upgrades

Since assuming office, Mrs. Kuku’s administration has delivered critical infrastructure upgrades that have expanded operational capacity and passenger experience.

At Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, FAAN completed the long‑abandoned rehabilitation of Runway 18R/36L and Taxiway B, including the replacement of degraded lighting systems — restoring full 24‑hour flight operations and enhancing safety.

Beyond Lagos, critical upgrades are underway or completed across the country: power and cooling system enhancements in Kano and Jos, expanded airfield lighting in Enugu and Ilorin, and new terminal facilities in Minna are all strengthening FAAN’s nationwide infrastructure footprint.

Significantly, a ₦712.26 billion renovation plan for the MMIA international terminal has been unveiled — a transformational project set to modernise passenger facilities, expand aircraft handling capacity, and create world‑class connectivity for travellers and cargo alike.

Enhancing Passenger Experience and Safety

Passenger comfort and confidence have been at the heart of FAAN’s service enhancements. Across major international airports, upgraded lounges, mother‑and‑child facilities, and specialised support for travellers with reduced mobility have raised service standards. Under Kuku’s leadership, passenger screening times during peak hours have been cut by up to 80 %, thanks to the deployment of modern screening and surveillance technologies that meet global best practices.

FAAN’s commitment to customer‑centric service also includes a transparent flight cancellation refund policy, simplified complaint resolution systems, and dedicated hotlines for customer support — all designed to make airports more welcoming and responsive to travellers’ needs.

Human Capital at the Core of Transformation

Recognising that technology and infrastructure are only as effective as the people operating them, Mrs. Kuku has championed human capacity development across FAAN. More than 3,000 airport personnel have been trained and certified in key aviation disciplines — including safety, airport operations, and digital systems — ensuring that Nigeria’s aviation workforce meets and exceeds international standards.

FAAN’s participation in globally‑recognised programmes such as the ICAO/ACI Airport Management Professional Accreditation Programme further reflects the agency’s commitment to excellence and modern airport management practices.

Strengthening Financial and Operational Resilience

Under Kuku’s leadership, FAAN has intensified efforts to recover legacy debts, optimise revenue streams, and improve financial transparency. The Authority’s adoption of enterprise‑wide planning tools, including the rollout of Microsoft Business Central ERP, has strengthened financial workflows, reporting accuracy, and real‑time performance monitoring — positioning FAAN for greater operational resilience and accountability.

Moreover, FAAN’s aggressive revenue reform initiatives have boosted remittances to government coffers and reduced leakages, laying a stronger financial platform for future investments and airport improvements.

Driving Strategic Partnerships and Global Engagement

A renewed focus on strategic collaborations has also defined FAAN’s recent success. From partnerships with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council to engagements with international aviation bodies, FAAN is asserting a wider role in trade facilitation and regional connectivity. Discussions with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and AviaDev aim to unlock new domestic and regional routes, expanding opportunities for commerce and tourism.

In a landmark development, FAAN’s leadership attracted West Africa’s first aircraft manufacturing and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility to Nigeria, with sites in Abuja and Akure designated for this strategic investment.

What to Expect in 2026

• Looking ahead, 2026 promises even more progress under Mrs. Kuku’s leadership:
• Completion and commissioning of upgraded international terminals and expanded aircraft handling facilities.
• Further roll‑out of digital transformation initiatives across operations, security, and customer services.
• Increased public‑private partnerships (PPPs) to unlock investment in commercial airport assets and non‑aeronautical revenue opportunities.
• Expanded training programmes and global certification pathways for FAAN personnel.
• Enhanced cargo processing capabilities and new route development to stimulate economic growth.

Conclusion: A New Era for Nigerian Airports

Under MD Olubunmi Kuku’s leadership, FAAN has not only repaired ageing infrastructure but redefined the role of airports as engines of economic growth, connectivity, and national pride.

With passenger experience, operational excellence, and sustainable growth at the centre of its 2026 roadmap, FAAN is poised to deliver an even higher standard of service, efficiency, and global competitiveness — elevating Nigeria’s aviation sector for years to come.