Tinubu Congratulates FAAN MD Kuku on Election as ACI Africa Vice-President
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku, on her election as Vice-President of Airports Council International (ACI) Africa and her induction as a permanent member of the ACI World Governing Board. Mrs. Kuku’s election was ratified during the 34th ACI Africa Annual General Assembly, Regional Conference, and Exhibition, held in Lusaka, Zambia. The gathering brought together airport executives, regulators, and stakeholders across the continent to deliberate on policies aimed at advancing aviation infrastructure, safety, and passenger experience in Africa. In a statement released by the Presidency, President Tinubu described Kuku’s new position as a milestone not only for Nigeria but also for Africa’s aviation industry. He commended her leadership at FAAN and said her election reflects global recognition of the reforms being undertaken in Nigeria’s aviation sector. “Mrs. Kuku’s emergence as Vice-President of ACI Africa is a testament to her professionalism, dedication, and the progress we are making in repositioning our aviation industry. Nigeria is proud of her achievement and confident that she will use this platform to strengthen continental collaboration, attract investment, and improve operational standards across African airports,” the statement read. Since assuming office in 2023, Kuku has introduced a number of initiatives aimed at modernising airport facilities, strengthening compliance with international aviation standards, and improving passenger services across Nigeria’s airports. Industry observers say her leadership has also emphasised safety, infrastructure upgrades, and strategic partnerships, which have contributed to restoring confidence in Nigeria’s aviation system. Aviation analysts note that her election to ACI Africa’s leadership will provide Nigeria with a stronger voice in shaping key policies, particularly on airport financing, safety regulations, sustainability, and climate resilience. Her seat on the ACI World Governing Board is expected to open doors for Nigeria to play a greater role in global aviation governance while ensuring that African interests are adequately represented. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria also welcomed the news, describing it as a significant step for the country. According to FAAN, Kuku’s election will further enhance Nigeria’s standing as an emerging hub in Africa’s aviation landscape and create opportunities for technical and financial collaborations. Reactions from stakeholders within the industry have been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing her new role as both an individual accomplishment and an institutional endorsement of Nigeria’s growing influence in continental aviation. As Mrs. Kuku prepares to take up her responsibilities at ACI Africa and the World Governing Board, the Federal Government has assured her of its continued support in driving reforms at FAAN and strengthening Nigeria’s aviation diplomacy. Her election, observers say, is not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of Nigeria’s renewed commitment to positioning its aviation sector as a key player in Africa and beyond.
