FAAN unveils refurbished E-wing departure terminal, partners UBA

…Acquires four CNG buses for passenger facilitation

 The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) partnership with the United Bank for Africa (UBA) has yielded massive investment in airport infrastructure as FAAN unveiled its newly remodelled E-Wing departure terminal on Friday.

 The facilities have been expanded and provided with many state-of-the-art screening facilities and a changed security area that would help elevate the country’s image.

The partnership signposts a strategic public-private partnership between FAAN and UBA) in boosting the country’s aviation infrastructure.

 The remodelled departure terminal, achieved through the UBA and FAAN partnership, exemplifies the shared commitment to enhancing passenger facilitation and fostering economic growth.

 Aside from the newly refurbished E Wing Departure terminal, FAAN equally took delivery of four environmentally friendly CNG-powered air-conditioned buses to improve passenger mobility within the airport premises.

 The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is dedicated to enhancing the overall passenger experience at airports, as demonstrated by recent developments at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

 Today, 20th December 2024, FAAN unveiled the newly refurbished E Wing Departure terminal alongside the introduction of four environmentally friendly CNG-powered air-conditioned buses to improve passenger mobility within the airport premises.

During the official commissioning ceremony held at the terminal, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo commended FAAN for its unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service to Nigerian travellers.

 The Minister lauded the collaborative effort between FAAN and the United Bank for Africa, highlighting this project as part of a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and entertainment within airport terminals.

 He emphasized that the project symbolizes the government’s strategic efforts to improve aviation services while aligning with global standards.

 The Managing Director of FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku explained that her organization would continue to focus on improving facilities and services at airports.

 She announced plans for additional investments in cooling systems, equipment upgrades, and modernising infrastructure by 2025, underscoring FAAN’s dedication to ensuring that Nigerians take pride in their airport facilities. Through these ongoing efforts, FAAN aims to create a positive and enjoyable airport experience for all passengers and stakeholders.

 Her words, ‘You can see that we expanded our facilities for the future; hence the use of terminal 2. In addition, we are using terminal D right now and we are moving passengers in here so that we can potentially decongest we are looking at our arrival time and slotting. That way, we are making effective use of the capacity of the terminal as well as the timing of flights arriving and landing.”

 The Group Managing Director of UBA, Oliver Alawuba said for 22 years, UBA has maintained a mutually beneficial relationship with FAAN, adding that today’s commissioning was a testament to the power of such collaborations.

 He pointed out key achievements in Nigeria’s aviation sector, including improved compliance with the Cape Town Convention (CTC), expanded Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASA), and enhanced consumer protection initiatives.

 The UBA GMD urged greater private-sector involvement in national development, emphasizing that public-private partnerships are transformative tools for addressing critical challenges.

 “This is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about creating an environment that catalyzes growth, facilitates seamless travel, and unlocks opportunities across every sector of the economy”, he said.

 Alawuba assured stakeholders of UBA’s commitment to supporting future phases of airport modernization, describing the terminal renovation as the first step in a larger journey, adding that the private sector must step in, and UBA provides that support needed at this time.

 Alawuba also praised the Minister’s innovative approach, particularly the transition to solar energy and the promotion of green aviation practices.

 “These milestones demonstrate a forward-thinking strategy that positions Nigeria as a global aviation hub,” Alawuba said.

He noted that investments in sustainable infrastructure, like the remodelled terminal, pave the way for economic growth and seamless travel experiences, showcasing Nigeria’s potential on the global stage.

Wole Shadare