The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the nation’s military institutions as part of broader efforts to enhance airport security, operational efficiency, and logistics support across Nigeria’s aviation sector.
This commitment was reiterated by the Managing Director of FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, during separate engagements in Lagos with senior officials of the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport.
Speaking while receiving the Commander of the National Air Defence Corps, Japhet Ekwuribe, during a courtesy visit, Mrs. Kuku emphasized the need for sustained collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force to strengthen security across the country’s airports. She noted that the evolving nature of threats within airport environments requires stronger partnerships, intelligence sharing, and coordinated operational strategies among stakeholders.
According to her, FAAN remains committed to working closely with the Air Force in critical areas including airside patrol support, improved communication surrounding sensitive flight operations, and proactive monitoring of activities within and around airport perimeters. She also highlighted the growing concern of land encroachment around airport facilities, stressing that it requires collective vigilance and timely intervention to protect critical aviation infrastructure.
Mrs. Kuku stated that collaboration among aviation and security stakeholders continues to play a vital role in maintaining safety and operational efficiency within Nigeria’s airport system. She added that FAAN values its relationship with the Nigerian Air Force and remains committed to building on the existing cooperation.
In his remarks, Air Vice Marshal Ekwuribe commended FAAN’s leadership for its proactive approach to aviation safety and described the engagement as an important step toward strengthening institutional ties and improving coordination in addressing shared security priorities. He noted that enhanced collaboration would further improve surveillance capabilities, response mechanisms, and overall operational effectiveness within airport environments nationwide.
In a related engagement, the FAAN Managing Director also hosted senior officers from the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport, led by the Corps Commander, Nansak Danjuma Shagaya. Discussions focused on expanding logistics cooperation and supporting planned welfare flight operations for Army personnel.
Major General Shagaya explained that the visit was aimed at strengthening the long-standing relationship between the Nigerian Army and FAAN, particularly in areas relating to air transport operations. He disclosed that the Army was exploring the possible restart of the Nigerian Army Air Freight Company and sought FAAN’s support in facilitating seamless welfare flight operations for military personnel.
According to him, the Army is particularly interested in collaboration around the provision of designated holding areas and support systems for officers and soldiers with connecting flights, noting that such arrangements would significantly improve the travel experience and welfare of personnel moving across operational locations.
Responding, Mrs. Kuku welcomed the initiative and assured the Army delegation of FAAN’s readiness to provide the necessary support to ensure smooth and efficient operations for the proposed welfare flights. She reiterated that the Authority remains committed to delivering safe, secure, and passenger-friendly airport services while supporting strategic national institutions.
The engagements underscore ongoing efforts by FAAN to deepen inter-agency cooperation with military and security institutions, with a shared focus on protecting critical aviation infrastructure, improving operational coordination, and enhancing the overall efficiency and safety of Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem.
