MMIA
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) opened its third National Aviation Conference (FNAC) on Monday, 17 November 2025, with a clear message: Nigeria’s aviation industry is poised for transformation through investment, partnership and global engagement.
Speaking at the Eko Convention Centre, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, Chairman of the FAAN Board, welcomed delegates and highlighted the conference’s theme, “Elevating the Nigerian Aviation Industry through Investment, Partnership and Global Engagements.” He said the gathering was “timely” and designed to “capture our progress, the work ahead and critical issues such as strengthening collaboration and embracing global standards.”
Ganduje outlined the board’s recent oversight activities, including inspection visits to Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, and Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, with further trips planned to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, and other facilities.
“These visits will help us see for ourselves the level of progress so far achieved on the ongoing reforms, our challenges, and engage stakeholders,” he said, emphasizing the board’s focus on improving security, safety, infrastructure, customer service and revenue generation.
He reiterated FAAN’s commitment to delivering world‑class airport infrastructure, boosting operational efficiency and enhancing passenger experience, but stressed that such goals could only be met through “collaboration and close relationship with investors, regulators, operators, development partners, and innovators.”
The two‑day conference, he added, would provide a platform for “robust discussions on airport commercialisation, aviation safety, cargo development, revenue optimisation, connectivity, public‑private partnership and multimodal transport – issues critical to the growth of our national economy.”
The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision was conveyed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr George Akume, who represented him.
Delivering a keynote address, Akume said the conference aligns with the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” to make aviation a critical engine for national growth and global competitiveness.
“The aviation industry remains one of the most technologically advanced sectors in the world and it is still growing in its vital role of connecting people and markets, driving tourism and trade as well as supporting countless jobs across sectors,” he said.
Akume highlighted achievements under the Tinubu administration, including the commissioning of new international terminals in Lagos and Port Harcourt, major rehabilitation works at Abuja, Enugu, Kano and other airports, and the expansion of cargo, hangar and MRO facilities in Lagos and Kano. “These interventions are building blocks for a modern aviation ecosystem anchored on efficiency, private sector investment, safety, and international competitiveness,” he noted.
Looking ahead, the SGF outlined emerging frontiers that should dominate discussions: dedicated cargo terminals linked to agro‑industrial zones, expanded MRO infrastructure to reduce capital flight, smart and green airports integrating renewable energy and biometric systems, and upgraded aviation training hubs.
“These emerging areas align directly with the President’s economic diversification, growth and job‑creation goals,” he added.
Addressing potential investors, Akume said, “There has never been a better time to invest. Opportunities abound because Nigeria’s aviation industry remains one of the most viable and under‑exploited markets in Africa.”
He cited a domestic market of over 220 million people, a strategic geographic location for trans‑African and intercontinental linkages, a growing middle class whose travel demand is expected to double within a decade, and a $1.7 trillion regional market driven by the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Both speakers expressed confidence that the conference would translate into concrete agreements.
Dr Ganduje thanked President Tinubu for approving the ongoing transformation of Nigeria’s airports and praised Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, SAN, and FAAN Managing Director Mrs Olubunmi Kuku for their leadership.
Akume concluded, “The future of Nigerian aviation is bright and full of promise. Together—government, private sector, and international partners—we can build a safer, stronger, and more globally connected industry. Let us continue working together to keep Nigeria flying higher.”
The two‑day event continues at the Eko Convention Centre, with delegates expected to explore partnerships that will shape the next phase of Nigeria’s aviation growth.
