The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has concluded a four-day Governing Board and Stakeholders’ Retreat in Abuja, with senior government officials calling for sweeping reforms to position the nation’s airports for global competitiveness.
The retreat, held at the Lake Greenfield Hotel, Kado, in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, had the theme “Future-Proofing FAAN: Leadership, Modernisation and Strategic Renewal.”
Declaring the retreat open on behalf of the Chairman of the House Committee on Aviation, Hon. Abdullahi Garba, the Vice Chairman, Hon. Festus Akingbaso, delivered a goodwill message emphasising the urgent need to restructure FAAN for operational efficiency and long-term sustainability.
He also reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to supporting ongoing reforms across the aviation sector.
Akingbaso congratulated the Chairman of the FAAN Governing Board, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, describing his appointment as “well-deserved” and assuring that the House Committee on Aviation has “the highest degree of confidence” in his capacity to reposition the organisation.
He said, “We are assured that under your astute guidance, FAAN will reach unprecedented heights.”
He highlighted five critical areas where FAAN must intensify action: organisational restructuring, safety and security enhancement, environmental sustainability, improved passenger experience, and strategic partnerships.
Speaking further, Akingbaso underscored the need to elevate the Procurement Department into a full-fledged unit under the Chief Accounting Officer in line with the Public Procurement Act (2007). Such restructuring, he said, would deepen accountability, streamline operations, and strengthen service delivery.
He noted that safety and security must remain “non-negotiable,” urging continuous investment in cutting-edge systems that align Nigeria with global aviation standards.
On sustainability, the committee encouraged FAAN to accelerate efforts that reduce carbon footprint and enhance energy efficiency, consistent with international environmental commitments.
Akingbaso also said that passenger comfort must be central to FAAN’s mission, calling for innovative improvements across check-in, security screening, terminal comfort, and baggage processes.
He urged the Board to strengthen collaboration with local and international partners to attract new technology, investment, and expertise.
In his welcome remarks, FAAN Governing Board Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, said the retreat was convened to shape a future-ready roadmap for the agency amid rapidly evolving global aviation dynamics.
According to him, “FAAN must continuously evolve, anticipate emerging trends, and adopt innovative approaches that ensure long-term resilience, efficiency and global relevance.”
Ganduje acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose Renewed Hope Agenda, he noted, is driving reforms that are modernising Nigeria’s airports.
He also commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo, SAN, for providing “clarity and direction” to the sector at a crucial time.
The Governing Board Chairman praised the synergy between the Board and FAAN Management, led by Managing Director Mrs. Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku.
He asserted that the cooperation had strengthened oversight functions and contributed to smoother airport operations.