Government Reaffirms Commitment To Elevating Nigerian Airports Viability
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barrister Festus Keyamo has reiterated the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the viability of Nigeria’s airports.
The Minister represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole stated this at the 9th Airport Business Summit & Expo, themed “Addressing Airport Viability As A Key To Successful Aviation Business Ambition” which was held in Lagos.
According to Keyamo: “Airports are the heartbeat of the aviation ecosystem. They serve as hubs of economic activity, connecting cities, regions, and countries, while facilitating the movement of goods and people around the world. The success of airlines and other aviation businesses is inextricably linked to the strength and viability of the airports they rely on.”
The Minister reiterated that without thriving airports, there can be no thriving aviation industry. He said: “airport viability, therefore, is not just a priority – it is a necessity for any ambitious aviation business.”
He outlined several critical factors essential to achieving airport viability, including; “sustainable financial models, operational efficiency and innovation, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)” amongst others.
Keyamo assured that the Ministy’s five focus areas, aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration are all geared towards enhancing airport viability.
He called upon the delegates and experts present at the summit to work towards actionable plans that will propel Nigeria’s aviation industry into its next phase of growth, driven by strategic investments, innovative approaches, and collaborative efforts.
The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, also emphasized the role of the air transport industry in the global economy.
According to Kuku, the key to viability lies in three key areas namely: “The operating model structure as an entity or an airport management company, the need to develop infrastructure, leveraging technology and innovations”
“Airports are more than just infrastructure; they are vital components of socio-economic development,” she stated.
Mrs. Kuku further emphasized that airport viability extends beyond mere financial profitability, encompassing operational efficiency, safety, security, environmental sustainability, and customer satisfaction.
She said “achieving airport viability is a collective responsibility that cannot be fulfilled by any single entity” and called on all sectors to join hands together in exploring frameworks that will help achieve viability of Nigeria airports.
The three-day event featured exhibitors from various airports across Nigeria, ground handling companies and other sectors. Awards and presentations were given to corporate entities and airport managers who have distinguished themselves in the industry.
