By Chinelo Obogo
A former spokesperson for the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Yakubu Dati, has highlighted that the impressive $71.6 million inflow into the Nigerian economy during the Yuletide season, which stemmed from the higher travel volume, can be partly credited to the efforts of the FAAN Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku.
In a statement, he said the nation’s airports witnessed a surge in activities, handling travelers, including Nigerians in the Diaspora, holidaymakers, tourists, diplomats, and entrepreneurs. He said the challenges of managing such high volumes were met with notable improvements in efficiency, safety, and customer service and that travelers reported an enhanced efficiency of airport personnel and improved service delivery.
Dati said a review of the “Lagos State Detty December 2024/2025 Report,” chaired by Mr. Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, highlighted events that attracted large audiences such as the Greater Lagos Fiesta, Mrs. Universe Africa, Rhythm Unplugged, African Fashion Week, and the Spotify Wrapped Concert, all of which showcased Nigerian arts, culture, and music on a global stage.
He said: “Mrs. Kuku has used her experience as an astute administrator to change the narratives at the airports by making air travel a pleasant experience. By that, she has also contributed to the growth of the Nigerian economy and significantly keying into the trajectory of the 1 billion dollars economy target envisaged by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. This level of impact is better appreciated in economic terms when it is understood that the Detty December period attracted huge financial inflow to the Lagos State government and Nigeria to the tune of $71.6 million.
“With this level of progress, it becomes obvious how the first female Managing Director of FAAN through her agency could contribute to the realization of the $1 billion target. Through a combination of operational enhancements, technology integration, and a strong focus on customer service and security, FAAN under the leadership of Mrs. Kuku’s leadership was able to handle what could have been a challenge well enough and to the admiration of both the local and international community. By ensuring that the busy holiday season was managed effectively, FAAN contributed significantly to the positive travel experience for all passengers experienced within the period.
“Her commitment to making Nigerian airports safer and more efficient exemplifies her dedication to the growth and development of the aviation sector in Nigeria. That people were able to travel in and out of Nigeria, reunite with friends and relations during the holiday period was as a result of the careful planning and adequate mobilisation of men and materials to cater for the exigencies of such periods. Enhancements to passenger amenities, such as improved restrooms and food courts, have made the airport experience more pleasant for travelers.