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FAAN Strengthens Nigeria's Leadership in Airport Management Through AMPAP FAAN Strengthens Nigeria's Leadership in Airport Management Through AMPAP

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) continues to cement its reputation as a leader in airport management across Africa, with its Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to professional excellence. Speaking at the recent Airport Management Professional Accreditation Programme (AMPAP) Alumni Meet and Greet in Lagos, Kuku highlighted the transformative impact of the program on Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Mrs. Kuku lauded the AMPAP initiative for its practical and interactive approach, which uses real-life case studies to enhance learning and application. She noted that the program not only equips participants with technical expertise but also fosters camaraderie, collaboration, and the sharing of diverse problem-solving perspectives among aviation professionals. “The presentations are not about finding definitive answers but demonstrating the ability to apply and communicate knowledge effectively for practical solutions,” Kuku explained.

She acknowledged the challenges associated with completing the program, which includes both foundational and elective courses, urging participants to remain committed. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing AMPAP, describing it as a pathway to a globally recognized qualification that elevates Nigeria’s airport management standards. Kuku also encouraged attendees to actively engage during the networking sessions, emphasizing the value of collaboration and knowledge exchange in fostering innovative solutions for the aviation industry.

Meanwhile, Oluwasola Awe, Africa’s representative on the AMPAP IAP Alumni Group Board, praised Nigeria’s achievements in advancing airport management expertise. She highlighted how FAAN’s commitment to professional development has been instrumental in positioning the country as a leader in this field. According to Awe, FAAN has been involved with AMPAP since 2008, but the program gained significant momentum after the successful completion by three pioneering participants—Emmanuel Chidera, Kabir Yusuf Mohammed, and Vivian Meyanga—in 2014. Their dedication set a foundation for future success.

Since then, FAAN has emerged as a significant contributor to Nigeria’s pool of International Airport Professionals (IAPs). Out of the country’s 46 certified IAPs, 41 are FAAN staff, underscoring the organization’s commitment to nurturing talent and expertise within its ranks. Awe described this as a “remarkable achievement” that solidifies Nigeria’s standing alongside South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania as leaders in airport management on the continent. Collectively, Africa now boasts 159 IAPs across 23 nations, further demonstrating the growing influence of the region in global aviation.

In her remarks, Awe also stressed the need for the aviation industry to remain proactive in addressing future challenges, particularly as artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms global industries. Citing the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, she warned that nearly 40% of today’s skills risk becoming obsolete, making continuous learning and strategic leadership essential for staying competitive. She commended FAAN’s senior management for their commitment to enrolling in AMPAP, signaling the organization’s focus on building leadership from within.

The AMPAP program, an initiative of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and Airports Council International (ACI), has become a benchmark for excellence in airport management worldwide. The next milestone for Nigeria in this journey will take place in September 2025 during the ICAO Assembly in Montreal, where new graduates will join the growing ranks of IAPs, further enhancing the country’s influence in global aviation leadership.

FAAN’s investment in AMPAP underscores its dedication to professional development and global best practices, ensuring that Nigeria remains at the forefront of airport management expertise in Africa. As the aviation sector evolves, this commitment positions the country to tackle emerging challenges while maintaining its leadership in the region’s aviation industry.