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Nigeria’s Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, has called the N23.1 billion allocated for nationwide airport upgrades “grossly insufficient.”
Kuku made the statement during an interview on Channels TV’s The Morning Brief. She emphasized the critical need for substantial investment in the aviation sector, particularly airport infrastructure.
“When you refer to N23.1 billion or N23 billion, it may not actually scratch the surface if you look at where we are in terms of infrastructure development and upgrades. Yes, we do have some money earmarked for capital-intensive projects this year, and maybe slightly more. What I do want to say is that the Federal Government, through FAAN actually has 22 airports under our domain, which we manage,” she noted.
The FAAN manages 22 airports across Nigeria, and according to Kuku, these facilities require significant improvements in terminal areas, land sides, and air sides. The allocated amount, he suggests, may not even begin to address these needs.
While acknowledging the allocation for capital projects, Kuku argued that it falls far short of what’s truly required for proper infrastructure development and upgrades.
This statement raises concerns about the state of Nigerian airports. Upgrading airport infrastructure is crucial for passenger safety, efficiency, and promoting economic activity. Insufficient funding could lead to delays, cancellations, and safety hazards.
Kuku’s comments urge the Nigerian government to reconsider the allocated budget and prioritize investment in this critical sector. Whether the government heeds this call remains to be seen.
Tags: FAAN, Airport, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Olubunmi Kuku, Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, Budget, Allocations, Aviation
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