The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, has called for bold reforms, innovation, and stronger collaboration to reposition Africa’s aviation sector for global competitiveness.
Kuku, who also serves as Vice President and Permanent Member of the ACI Africa Board, made the call while delivering her address at the 75th Airports Council International (ACI) World Governing Board meeting held between March 28 and early April 2026.
Speaking before global aviation leaders, she emphasised the urgent need for African airports to embrace digital transformation, infrastructure modernisation, and improved passenger experience to meet rising travel demand and global standards.
According to her, Africa’s aviation industry remains a critical driver of economic growth, trade, and regional integration, but must overcome longstanding challenges including infrastructure gaps, safety concerns, and funding constraints.
Kuku stressed that collaboration among airport operators, regulators, and governments is key to unlocking the continent’s full aviation potential. She urged stakeholders to adopt innovative financing models and strengthen public-private partnerships to accelerate development.
She further highlighted FAAN’s ongoing reforms in Nigeria, noting that investments in airport infrastructure, safety systems, and customer service are already yielding positive outcomes.
The FAAN boss reaffirmed her commitment, through her leadership roles in ACI, to ensuring that Africa’s voice remains strong in global aviation decision-making while promoting policies that support sustainable growth across the continent.