The Governing Board and management of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) have inspected ongoing infrastructure projects at Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, as the agency and the Cross River State Government explore closer collaboration to improve the airport’s capacity and passenger experience.
The inspection followed a courtesy visit led by FAAN Governing Board Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Edet Otu. The delegation included FAAN Managing Director and Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, members of the Governing Board and senior management officials.
During the meeting, Ganduje thanked the governor for receiving the delegation and stressed the importance of a stronger partnership between FAAN and the state government in supporting the sustainable development of the Calabar airport and the wider aviation sector.
Governor Otu, in response, presented the state’s aviation master plan and outlined areas where both parties could work together, with particular attention to the ongoing upgrade of the airport’s international wing.
The governor said the project is intended to strengthen the airport ahead of the expected increase in passenger traffic associated with the 6th African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network Investment Conference (AfSNET 2026), which Cross River State is scheduled to host.
As part of the state government’s support for airport operations, Otu also presented a Ford Ranger pickup vehicle to the management of Margaret Ekpo International Airport. The vehicle is expected to support operational activities and contribute to improved service delivery at the airport.
The FAAN delegation subsequently proceeded to the airport to assess ongoing infrastructure works. Among the projects inspected was the runway upgrade, which forms part of efforts to improve the airport’s operational infrastructure.
The team also inspected a newly installed 500KVA solar power system, highlighting the airport’s move towards more sustainable and reliable energy solutions. The installation forms part of broader efforts to incorporate green energy into airport operations.
Attention was also given to the terminal building, where the FAAN Board and management identified areas requiring further upgrading and modernisation to improve the overall functionality and passenger experience.
The visit comes as Cross River seeks to strengthen Calabar’s position as an important gateway for tourism, business and investment in the state. For FAAN, the engagement reinforces its focus on working with state governments and other stakeholders to address infrastructure needs while improving operational efficiency, sustainability and service standards across Nigeria’s airports.
