By Okanga Agila -
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made a landmark appointment on December 18th, 2023, naming Mrs. Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku as the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). This historic move underscored the administration's dedication to meritocracy and gender equality, shattering barriers and paving the way for future generations.
Under Mrs. Kuku's leadership, FAAN has entered a new era of growth, openness, and strategic development. Her vision and expertise have yielded tangible reforms, marking a significant turning point for the agency. With precision and determination, Mrs. Kuku has tackled the challenges of her role, ushering in a brighter future for FAAN and Nigeria's aviation sector.
With 24 airports under its wing, FAAN's management task was daunting, but Mrs. Kuku tackled it with the precision of a seasoned maestro. Her visionary initiatives have elevated FAAN to a gold standard of operational excellence, safety, and economic viability in the aviation sector.
One of Mrs Kuku's crowning achievements was the triumphant reopening of the 3.9-kilometre Runway 18R/36R at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. The runway, a critical artery for international operations, had been closed for reconstruction, causing frustrating delays and congestion. Under Kuku's expert guidance, the reconstruction was completed in record time - under a year - and now boasts world-class safety and efficiency standards, a testament to her leadership prowess.
This milestone not only eased the heavy traffic on the domestic runway but also demonstrated the commitment of a leader who prioritized safety and improving the passenger experience. Her ability to mobilize resources, ensure compliance with international standards, and complete such a critical project within a short timeline speaks so much of her visionary leadership.
As a hands-on leader, Mrs Kuku inspected the Murtala Muhammed Airport's international terminal up close during busy times. Significant traffic and security issues were identified by her research, which she quickly resolved. She reduced traffic and increased overall operational efficiency by assigning security personnel to key areas and restricting passenger access to the terminal. Her prompt action demonstrated her dedication to safety and orderliness while also improving passenger comfort.
The financial performance of FAAN has also significantly improved during Mrs. Kuku’s tenure. Under her leadership, the agency sent more than ₦112 billion in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to the Federal Government’s Consolidated Revenue Fund. Her ability to maximize FAAN’s revenue streams and her dedication to the financial viability of government agencies are demonstrated by this accomplishment. Her focus on accountability and transparency has also raised the bar for FAAN’s financial management. Her efforts to streamline operations, eradicate inefficiencies, and cultivate a culture of excellence have established a solid basis for sustained development and sustainability.
In order to raise safety and operational standards throughout FAAN, Mrs. Kuku started extensive manpower training programs after realizing the value and necessity of human capital development. At the FAAN Training School, which she rebuilt to meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, more than 4,000 employees and key personnel received training in six safety-critical courses. In addition to improving the proficiency of FAAN’s workers, this calculated investment in capacity building has drawn students from nearby African nations. Mrs Kuku has strengthened FAAN’s position as a regional centre for aviation training, thereby increasing its impact and solidifying Nigeria’s dominance in the aviation industry.
Her leadership style is one that’s characterized by collaboration and inclusivity. Her ability to work seamlessly with stakeholders across various levels of government and industry has been instrumental in achieving FAAN’s objectives. A notable example is her partnership with the Niger State Government to rehabilitate and expand the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna.
A project which involved the overhauling of the runway, construction of a modern passenger terminal, and expansion of cargo facilities. Despite the daunting timeline and resource constraints, Mrs Kuku’s collaborative approach ensured the project’s successful completion. This achievement symbolizes Nigeria’s dedication to advancing infrastructure, enhancing strong connectivity, and creating economic growth.
Mrs. Kuku’s focus on modernization has transformed FAAN’s operations, making them more efficient and customer-centric. Her emphasis on technology-driven solutions has improved service delivery, reduced operational bottlenecks, and enhanced passenger experience across the country’s airports.
For instance, the introduction of automated systems for ticketing, baggage handling, and security checks has significantly reduced waiting times and improved efficiency. These innovations reflect her commitment to aligning FAAN’s operations with global best practices and meeting the expectations of modern travellers.
Under Mrs. Kuku’s leadership, FAAN has become a key driver of economic growth in Nigeria. By enhancing airport infrastructure, improving operational efficiency, and fostering stakeholder collaboration, she has created an enabling environment for businesses and investors.
The aviation sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP has grown significantly under her watch, with increased passenger traffic, improved cargo handling capabilities, and expanded connectivity. These developments are directly aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda’s goal of diversifying Nigeria’s economy and creating new growth opportunities.
Kuku's appointment as FAAN's first female Managing Director sends a powerful message about the importance of gender inclusivity. She has inspired a new generation of leaders, breaking down barriers and proving that success is not limited by gender. As a trailblazer, Kuku has opened doors for women in FAAN and beyond. Her influence has motivated women across Nigeria to pursue their goals with confidence.
Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku’s tenure as Managing Director of FAAN is a story of hope, progress, and transformation. Her proactive approach, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to excellence have not only elevated FAAN but have also reinforced Nigeria’s position as a regional leader in aviation.
Indeed, under Mrs. Kuku's direction, the Renewed Hope Agenda is more than simply a slogan—it is a reality. Under her leadership, FAAN is well-positioned to reach even higher levels, fulfilling its mission to link Nigerians to the rest of the world and promote economic development. The Journey before her is just getting started, and with her vibrant leadership, FAAN's future is brighter than ever.
Okanga writes from Abuja.
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