The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to enhance the viability of Nigeria’s airports.
The Minister represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, made the statement at the 9th Airport Business Summit and Expo held in Lagos on August 21, 2024.
He emphasized the need for sustainable, profitable, and efficient airport operations as the foundation for the aviation industry’s growth.
Odutayo Oluseyi, Head/Deputy Director of Information, Press, and. HPublic Relations, issued the statement, highlighting the government’s focus on airports as critical hubs for economic activity that connect cities, regions, and countries while facilitating the movement of goods and people worldwide.
According to Meribole, “airport viability is not just a priority but a necessity for any ambitious aviation business.”
He outlined essential factors for achieving this goal, including sustainable financial models, operational efficiency, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and strategic use of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).
Meribole emphasized that airports play a significant role in national and regional development, noting that “airports are not just an aviation issue; they are a national economic imperative.”
He outlined the five focus areas of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, which align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
These focus areas include sustainable financial models, infrastructure development, human capital development, adoption of eco-friendly practices, and policies aimed at achieving airport viability.
During the summit, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring the sustainability and success of the nation’s airports.
In her presentation, she highlighted the role of airports as gateways to nations and economic engines, emphasizing that “airports are more than just infrastructure; they are vital components of socio-economic development.”
Kuku called for the active participation of all stakeholders to achieve the vision of world-class airports in Nigeria.
The Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Aeronautics and Cargo at Bi-Courtney Aviation Service Limited, Mr. Remi Jibodu, also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships and strict adherence to Service Level Agreements (SLAs) in maintaining the long-term viability of airports.
He emphasized that “partnerships form the bedrock of success in the aviation industry,” noting that mutual trust and shared goals can lead to innovations that streamline operations and improve customer experience.
The three-day summit featured exhibitors from various sectors, including airports, ground handling companies, and the Ministry of Health.
Awards and presentations were given to exhibitors and airport managers who have distinguished themselves in the industry.
The event was convened by Mr. Fortune Idu, who emphasized the summit’s role as a platform for implementing best practices to enhance airport performance in supporting air connectivity in Nigeria.
