In a determined move to boost operational efficiency and address infrastructural challenges within Nigeria’s aviation sector, the Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, on Tuesday, November 11, led members of the Authority’s Board of Directors on a comprehensive inspection of the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), Kano.
The strategic visit formed part of FAAN’s ongoing efforts to assess the state of airport facilities across the country and ensure that each terminal aligns with the Authority’s renewed standards of service, safety, and infrastructure improvement.
Dr Ganduje, accompanied by the Managing Director and Chief Executive of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, the Board Secretary and Director of Legal Services, Mrs Bridget Gold, and Board Members Engr Nasiru Muazu and Dr Ahmad Ibrahim Suleiman, toured key operational points of the airport.
They were joined by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Henry Agbebire, who provided updates on the Authority’s communication and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
The team conducted a detailed inspection of critical facilities, including the Fire Bay, Water Treatment Plant, Domestic and International Terminals, and several airside infrastructure components vital to airport safety and smooth operations.
Expressing mixed feelings of satisfaction and concern, Dr Ganduje commended FAAN management for maintaining operational standards but emphasised the urgent need to bridge noticeable infrastructure gaps.
He highlighted that prompt action was required to complete ongoing projects, particularly the domestic terminal, to meet both national and international expectations.
In a decisive directive, the former Kano State Governor issued a two-week ultimatum to the contractor handling the domestic terminal project to complete all outstanding works, including the VIP Lounge and other finishing touches. He stressed that the Board would no longer condone delays that hinder the timely delivery of quality infrastructure.
“The Board is fully committed to ensuring that every airport under FAAN’s control reflects our renewed culture of excellence, accountability, and service efficiency. We must meet the expectations of both travellers and stakeholders through visible and sustained progress,” Dr Ganduje stated.
The inspection tour, which felt like a homecoming for Dr Ganduje, was marked by a spirit of optimism and collaboration among the Board members and FAAN management.
His tenure as a two-term Governor of Kano State has positioned him as a key advocate for infrastructural renewal and economic development in the region, making the visit particularly symbolic.
Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs Kuku, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to implementing strategic upgrades and ensuring that airports across Nigeria operate at par with global standards.
She noted that the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport remains a vital gateway to northern Nigeria and must be modernised to meet the growing needs of passengers and airlines.
FAAN continues to uphold its mission of providing safe, secure, and efficient airport services while driving infrastructural renewal in line with the strategic vision of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
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