Sade Williams/Business a.m.
The quest to stabilise and grow the Nigerian economy and drive up revenue could benefit from proper investments into the exportation of food and other perishables via air transportation, says Olubunmi Kuku, managing director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
She said this in Minna, Niger State, recently at the commissioning of the newly refurbished Bola Tinubu International Airport, Minna.
Kuku, who represented Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development, at the commissioning thanked Governor Umar Mohammed Bago of Niger State for speedily completing the project, adding that it would surely contribute to the improvement of the state’s gross domestic product.
Her words: “The overhauling of the runway and construction of the passenger terminal in a very short timeline was a daunting task that required much expense and synergy between all parties involved. I am, indeed, grateful that this project will forever be seen as a symbol of our nation’s dedication to advancing infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and fostering economic growth.
“We believe that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna, will serve as a gateway to the world, facilitating trade, tourism, and collaboration on a global scale.
“At FAAN, one of our key aspirations is to help grow Nigeria’s economy through the facilitation of exports. We believe that with some investments in the right areas, we can put a huge dent in the N3.6 trillion worth of perishable goods lost annually. Therefore, we are excited that his excellency has promised to complete the cargo and international terminals within a short time. We encourage him to do so as we cannot wait to assist the ambitions of the state to be the biggest food producer and food exporter in the country,” she said.
Renaming the Minna International Airport after President Tinubu was historic and befitting, given the policy direction and implementations by the current administration, Kuku added.
“This occasion not only pays tribute to a visionary leader but also signifies a new chapter in the development of our aviation industry. President Tinubu’s commitment to progress, innovation, and excellence is evident in all his policies and programmes and at FAAN, we are happy to have partnered with the equally visionary leadership of the Niger State Government, ably-led by Governor Bago, on this project. His commitment, drive and close monitoring contributed immensely to seeing this project delivered in record time and for this, we are indeed thankful,” she said.
