Kuku
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has embarked on a mission to revolutionize its workforce development, aligning with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to the Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the authority is focused on capacity development for all its staff, with critical areas such as airport marshallers, aviation security, and fire services receiving top priority.
Under Kuku’s leadership, FAAN has trained and certified about 3,000 aviation security officers at various levels, with plans to accelerate training for fire staff and other critical personnel.
FAAN is also partnering with the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) to roll out more programs.
Kuku emphasized that sustainable aviation security is only possible through shared commitment, highlighting the importance of collaboration among stakeholders.
The FAAN boss noted that the authority’s training programs are designed to equip staff with the necessary skills to excel in their roles. For instance, the Airport Management Professionals Accreditation Program (AMPAP) is a five-to-six-part program that focuses on developing expertise and capabilities for airport professionals.
This program is recognized globally and hosted by both the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Airports Council International (ACI).
Kuku’s administration has also prioritized infrastructure expansion, procuring and installing modern equipment such as baggage scanners, body scanners, and other security technology.
The authority has trained personnel to handle these equipment, ensuring meaningful results and matching intention with action.
Olubunmi Kuku highlighted FAAN’s indigenous capacity to serve on the global stage in smart airport management. She cited an example of the agency’s presentation at the Smart Airports Conference in Amsterdam, which led to an invitation to present in the United States.
This, she said, demonstrates the authority’s capability to compete favorably with other airports worldwide.
On staff welfare, Kuku’s administration recently implemented a new minimum wage structure for FAAN employees, paying arrears for four months and ensuring timely payment of salaries.
The Managing Director emphasized the importance of motivating staff, stating that FAAN is committed to making sure employees get what they deserve.
The Director of Human Resources and Administration, Dr. Lukman Emiola, echoed Kuku’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of training and capacity development for FAAN staff.
He noted that the authority collaborates extensively with local and international partners to provide training, ensuring compliance with international certification bodies.
Emiola emphasized that FAAN’s training school has been resuscitated with the right personnel and plans, aligning with the organization’s requirements to train and generate revenue.
He also highlighted the need for more resources to achieve FAAN’s goals, citing the importance of investing in modern technology and equipment.
As FAAN continues to upscale its manpower development, the authority’s leadership is committed to ensuring that staff have the necessary skills
With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and staff welfare, FAAN is poised to take its rightful place among the world’s top airports.
In line with this vision, the authority’s operational safety and health unit has developed a framework to ensure a conducive workplace environment, free from workplace injuries and mental health issues.
The unit’s head, Oguche Samuel Enejo, commended the Managing Director for her support in developing the manual, which is set to be submitted for approval.
With the manual’s approval, FAAN plans to implement a comprehensive training program, followed by evaluation and improvement phases.
This initiative demonstrates FAAN’s commitment to prioritizing staff safety and well-being, aligning with global best practices in airport management.
As the authority looks to the future, it is clear that FAAN is on a path of transformation, driven by Kuku’s leadership and vision.
And with a focus on capacity development, infrastructure expansion, and staff welfare, FAAN is set to becoming a leading light in airport management, not just in Nigeria, but globally.
