President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, on her election as Vice-President of the Airports Council International (ACI) Africa.
The recognition, sealed at the 34th ACI Africa General Assembly in Lusaka, Zambia, highlights Nigeria’s rising influence in global aviation and underscores the administration’s push for excellence in air transport.
The FAAN chief’s election as ACI Africa Vice-President was ratified on September 13, 2025, during the high-level assembly of aviation leaders from across the continent.
The sessions, which concluded on September 19, brought together stakeholders to deliberate on policies, standards, and strategies shaping the future of air transport in Africa.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commended Kuku’s achievement, describing it as a testament to her leadership and the sustained progress of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“The President notes the sustained efforts and commitment of the FAAN management to making air transport in Nigeria safe, efficient, and reflective of the highest standards, which has attracted global recognition and commendations,” the statement read.
Tinubu’s message placed emphasis on the reforms and operational improvements under FAAN, which have helped position Nigeria as a respected player in international aviation.
He praised the management for strengthening safety and efficiency across the country’s airports, efforts that have not gone unnoticed by international aviation bodies.
Highlighting Kuku’s previous roles, Tinubu noted her contributions within ACI, where she previously served as Regional Advisor for Africa before securing a seat on the ACI World Governing Board.
These positions, he said, demonstrated her foresight and leadership qualities, paving the way for her new role as ACI Africa Vice-President.
The election of the FAAN chief as ACI Africa Vice-President not only boosts Nigeria’s aviation profile but also provides an opportunity for the country to contribute more directly to shaping the policies and standards of airports across the continent.
Founded in 1991, Airports Council International (ACI) is the global trade body representing airports worldwide, with over 2,000 members in more than 170 countries.
Its mission is to advance the collective interests of airports by promoting global standards, best practices, and sustainable development in the aviation industry.
Kuku’s ascent within the body is seen as both a personal milestone and a national achievement, given Nigeria’s status as one of the busiest aviation hubs in Africa.
Industry stakeholders have applauded Kuku’s election, stressing that it reflects well on Nigeria’s progress in airport management and global engagement.
Aviation analysts note that her new role could help attract more international partnerships, investment, and capacity-building opportunities for Nigerian airports.
By aligning Nigeria more closely with global aviation standards, the FAAN chief’s leadership as ACI Africa Vice-President is expected to influence policy decisions that could improve safety protocols, passenger experience, and sustainability across the continent.
Over the past decade, Nigeria has grappled with challenges in the aviation sector ranging from infrastructure gaps to safety concerns.
However, recent reforms spearheaded by FAAN and other regulatory agencies have improved operational efficiency and expanded capacity at key airports.
Experts point to the upgrades at Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt airports, alongside stricter enforcement of international safety regulations, as evidence of Nigeria’s progress.
The election of the FAAN chief as ACI Africa Vice-President is widely seen as a validation of these reforms.
The Tinubu administration has prioritized aviation as a driver of economic growth, connectivity, and foreign investment.
By supporting initiatives that align Nigerian airports with international standards, the government hopes to expand trade, tourism, and regional integration.
Observers argue that Kuku’s new position strengthens Nigeria’s ability to influence continental aviation policy, particularly in areas such as security, digital transformation, and sustainability.
As the new ACI Africa Vice-President, Kuku is expected to play a central role in guiding Africa’s airports through evolving challenges, including increasing passenger demand, climate change concerns, and the need for digital innovation.
Her leadership also places Nigeria at the heart of strategic conversations about the future of aviation on the continent.
For many, her election is not just a personal triumph but also a reflection of Nigeria’s growing credibility in the global aviation industry.
The election of Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku as ACI Africa Vice-President is a landmark achievement for Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Backed by President Tinubu’s commendation and the international community’s recognition, the FAAN chief’s new role offers an opportunity to deepen Nigeria’s engagement with global aviation standards and promote sustainable growth across African airports.
For stakeholders, this development represents more than a title — it is a chance to drive reforms, attract investment, and elevate Nigeria’s standing on the international stage.
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