FAAN MD Olubunmi Kuku urges support for Nigerian airlines as national flag carriers to boost passenger, cargo traffic and global aviation competitiveness

The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, has called for strategic support of two to three indigenous airlines to become Nigeria’s national flag carriers, aiming to strengthen the country’s aviation sector and improve its global competitiveness.

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Kuku made the remarks during the first-quarter Business Breakfast Meeting of the Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative, according to a post obtained from FAAN’s X handle on Saturday. She said the move is expected to significantly boost both passenger and cargo traffic across Nigeria.

“Earlier today, at the Q1 Business Breakfast Meeting of the Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative, Kuku emphasised strategic support for 2–3 Nigerian airlines to become National Flag Carriers, a move expected to boost passenger and cargo traffic,” the post stated.

The FAAN chief explained that developing strong local carriers capable of operating at a national level would unlock greater economic value across Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem.

The initiative is part of broader reforms being implemented by FAAN to enhance airport operations and improve passenger experience nationwide.

Kuku highlighted ongoing improvements at Murtala Muhammed International Airport and announced plans to build modern cargo terminals and cold-chain systems to support air freight growth.

“We are also working to position Nigeria as a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul hub, so that more value is retained within the country,” she said, noting further plans to deploy advanced technologies such as upgraded airfield lighting and the Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (A-SMGCS) to enhance safety and operational efficiency.

The FAAN Managing Director emphasised that sustained investment in infrastructure and local airline capacity will be critical to achieving a resilient and globally competitive aviation industry.

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“These initiatives are designed to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem and support growing demand across passenger and cargo segments,” Kuku added.