FAAN Warns States Against Unviable Airport Projects

Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), warned state governments against embarking on airport projects without conducting thorough economic feasibility assessments. She noted that currently, less than 10% of Nigeria's population, approximately 17.5 million out of 220 million people, travels by air.

Kuku stressed that airport development must be driven by sound business considerations, including the actual costs of investment and the need for airports to meet global aviation standards. She pointed out that airports thrive when supported by industries, commerce, and tourism, and urged states to consider economic activities that could generate passenger and cargo traffic.

Kuku also highlighted the necessity for states to address broader transport challenges, including strengthening road and rail infrastructure, to improve air travel safety and accessibility. She warned that projects lacking sustainable traffic support could become expensive assets with limited returns.