Olubunmi Kuku, managing director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has said that N580 billion is needed for the rehabilitation of runways across the country, as some have outlived their lifespan.

Mrs Kuku made the remark during a tour of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) by the new permanent secretary of the ministry of aviation and aerospace development, Kana Ibrahim, on Wednesday.

She explained that airport runways have a lifespan of 20 to 25 years, and most were built in 1978.

She said that many of FAAN’s facilities, including terminals and runways, are ageing and in need of significant repairs and upgrades.

Mrs Kuku added that other challenges include ageing infrastructure, obsolete equipment, land encroachment, security, financial constraints, and the non-availability of befitting office complexes, among others.

She said that the situation affects operational efficiency and safety, necessitating substantial investment for modernisation.

Mrs Kuku, however, disclosed that the authority generated N343 billion from January to November 2024 and remitted N128.7 billion into the federation’s coffers in 2024.

The FAAN boss said the authority aims to increase its revenue in 2025 by adopting innovative strategies to boost non-aeronautical revenue streams.

She explained that these streams include commercial concessions, advertising, real estate development, and cargo operations.

Mrs Kuku also hinted that FAAN would focus on public-private partnerships to expand investment opportunities and develop underutilized assets in 2025.

According to her, FAAN will invest in state-of-the-art security systems, including biometric screening and advanced surveillance technologies, to ensure compliance with global standards.

“Staff training on aviation security and safety procedures will be intensified to address emerging challenges and risks in the industry.

“FAAN will upgrade and maintain e-procurement systems to reduce technical downtimes; we plan to align FAAN’s goals with national aviation policies and international standards.

“FAAN will integrate environmentally sustainable practices into its operations, focusing on energy efficiency, waste management, and carbon emission reductions,” she said.

Mrs Kuku also said that improving critical facilities at major international airports would be prioritized, while regional airport capacity would be enhanced to meet growing passenger and cargo demands.

In his speech, the permanent secretary commended the structural framework and leadership of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

Mr Ibrahim expressed confidence in the ongoing transformation within the aviation sector, commending the dexterity of Mrs. Kuku in enhancing operational efficiency and service delivery.

He, therefore, reaffirmed the ministry’s full support for FAAN in sustaining the momentum of development while prioritizing comprehensive training for personnel to ensure sustainability.

“The aviation sector demands constant innovation and expertise; I therefore urge everyone to put on their thinking caps and contribute to improving the system.

“Together, we can elevate Nigeria’s aviation industry to global standards,” he noted.

Mr Ibrahim also attributed the success recorded at FAAN to the visionary leadership of the minister of aviation and aerospace development, Festus Keyamo, SAN.

(NAN)