The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria says 580 billion Naira is needed to improve airport runways nationwide.
FAAN Director General, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, lamented the state of the country’s runways while receiving the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aeronautics and Aerospace Development, Dr Ibrahim Kana, on Wednesday. Kuku said the runway, built in the 1970s, has served its purpose.
The official said that in addition to the runway, other airport infrastructures, such as the terminal building, also need to be improved, adding that this was affecting operational efficiency and safety.
“It will cost N580 billion to rehabilitate all the runways of airports with a lifespan of 20 to 25 years, but most of the airports were built years before 1978,” he said.
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Most of FAAN’s facilities, including terminal buildings and operational facilities, are old and in need of repair and renovation. This affects efficiency and safety and requires significant investment in modernization.
“Furthermore, despite efforts to improve airport security, FAAN continues to face challenges in managing security risks, particularly due to the increase in air travel and the potential for terrorist attacks or other threats at major airports.”
On access to the land, Kuku said FAAN land was continuously degraded due to a lack of fencing.
“Many airports have outdated equipment such as old fire trucks, generators, air conditioners and conveyor belts with worn slats, belts and motors. These equipment are ineffective and costly to maintain.”
However, the FAAN chairman promised to improve the airport’s infrastructure by renovating the terminal, widening the runway and improving the facilities.
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The Permanent Secretary had earlier expressed confidence in the ongoing transformation of the Nigerian aviation sector. He pledged that the project would continue to support FAAN.
