By Ibraheem Hamza Muhammad
Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has been nominated to serve as a Regional Advisor representing Africa on the Airport Council International (ACI) World Governing Board.
The nomination was ratified on September 20, 2024, during the ACI Africa General Assembly held in South Africa, marking a significant milestone not only for Ms. Kuku, but for the entire African aviation community.
As a Regional Advisor, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku will play a pivotal role in shaping policies and strategies that impact airports across the continent. Representing Africa on the ACI World Governing Board, which oversees 2,100 airports and 814 members across 169 countries.
She will advocate for the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African airports. Her extensive experience in Infrastructure finance and the aviation sector will be invaluable in addressing issues such as infrastructure development, safety regulations, and sustainable practices, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of African airports on a global scale.
In recognition of her outstanding leadership and the remarkable performance of airports under her management, her team was also honored with two prestigious safety awards during the ACI Africa Conference held in Johannesburg. The accolades spotlighted the exceptional services and operational excellence of both the Portharcourt International Airport and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. These awards reflect her commitment to elevating Nigeria’s aviation standards and her vision for a thriving and resilient aviation industry across Africa.
Accoeding to her, “I am deeply honoured to be elected as the Regional Advisor for Africa on the ACI World Governing Board,” said Olubunmi Kuku. “This role is not just a personal achievement; it is a collective victory for our nation and the African aviation sector. Together, we can foster collaboration, innovation, and excellence, ensuring that our airports are not only safe and efficient but also drivers of economic growth and development.”
Her election comes at a critical time when the global aviation industry is navigating through unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Her leadership will be instrumental in promoting the interests of African airports, advocating for investment in infrastructure, and pushing for policies that support sustainable aviation practices.
As she embarks on this exciting new chapter, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku remains committed to her mission of transforming Nigeria’s aviation landscape and uplifting the African aviation sector. With her at the helm, the future looks bright for airports across the continent.
She was appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive of FAAN in December 2023. With a wealth of experience in both the public and private sectors, she brings a unique blend of expertise to her role. Prior to her appointment, she held multiple leadership positions as Partner at Ernst & Young and with Deloitte Consulting.
Her exceptional leadership in the aviation sector includes serving as a technical advisor in the Federal Ministry of Aviation and as General Manager at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency.
Mrs Kuku has been recognized for her commitment to advancing the industry and has held leadership roles on several boards and in multiple international organizations. Her extensive background equips her to drive infrastructure development while ensuring safety and efficiency within the aviation sector. With a passion for innovation and excellence, Kuku is poised to make significant contributions to the growth of aviation in Nigeria and across Africa.
