THE Yuletide season usually records the highest number of activities at the airports due to the influx of travellers from different parts of the world and within Nigeria. The airports become suffused with travelers which include Nigerians in the Diaspora visiting home, holidaymakers seeking fun, tourists on adventure, diplomats on shuttles and entrepreneurs positioning to make the best out of the season. It is within this period, however, that airports face the most challenges due to the high demands for attention, safety and efficiency in handling both passengers and cargos. The last holiday season often referred to as “Detty December,” particularly recorded a significant influx of both domestic and international travelers, Quite significantly, however, air travelers either returning to the country or commuting from different points within have testified to noticing big changes at the airports.
Unlike before where it was common to see passengers exchanging words with personnel at the airports due to one complaint or the other, Nigerian airports have now become like relaxation spots where an air of camaraderie pervades and everyone is beaming with smiles. Issues such as passengers losing their luggage or having their luggage delayed for several weeks after they have arrived due to lack of proper handling have become things of the past. The airport environment has become so attractive and user-friendly that people whose pick-up arrangements are delayed no longer feel the stress of waiting but take advantage of the changes to relax. Many passengers have confirmed that it is now a delight to travel the Nigerian route as the efficiency of airport personnel in dealing with passengers has been greatly enhanced while service delivery is top notch. No doubt, the Managing Director of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has used her experience as an astute administrator to change the narratives at the airports by making air travel a pleasant experience.
By that, she has also contributed to the growth of the Nigerian economy and significantly keyed into the trajectory of the $1 billion economy target envisaged by the Renewed Hope agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration. This level of impact is better appreciated in economic terms when it is understood that the Detty December period attracted huge financial inflow to the Lagos State government and Nigeria to the tune of $71.6 million. In a review of the “Lagos State Detty December 2024/2025 Report,” chaired by Mr. Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, the report highlighted how “Detty December” season featured an array of events that drew large audiences, including locals, international tourists, and members of the Nigerian Diaspora.
Notable events such as the Greater Lagos Fiesta, Mrs. Universe Africa, Rhythm Unplugged, African Fashion Week, and the Spotify Wrapped Concert contributed to the festive buzz, attracting attendees eager to experience Lagos’ unique energy from across the globe. This salient promotion of the Tourism sector during the season not only brought economic benefits but also served as a platform to celebrate Nigerian arts, culture, and music on a global stage. With this level of progress, it becomes obvious how the first female Managing Director of FAAN through her agency could contribute to the realization of the $1 billion target. Through a combination of operational enhancements, technology integration, and a strong focus on customer service and security, FAAN under the leadership of Mrs. Kuku’s leadership was able to handle what could have been a challenge well enough and to the admiration of both the local and international community.
By ensuring that the busy holiday season was managed effectively, FAAN contributed significantly to the positive travel experience for all passengers experienced within the period. Her commitment to making Nigerian airports safer and more efficient exemplifies her dedication to the growth and development of the aviation sector in Nigeria. That people were able to travel in and out of Nigeria, reunite with friends and relations during the holiday period was as a result of the careful planning and adequate mobilisation of men and materials to cater for the exigencies of such periods. Enhancements to passenger amenities, such as improved restrooms and food courts, have made the airport experience more pleasant for travelers.
The CEO of FAAN who denied herself the luxury of the Yuletide holiday was seen by both staff and passengers working round the clock to focus on optimising airport operations, including improving the efficiency of check-in processes, security screenings, and baggage handling systems, which are crucial during peak travel times. On assuming office, she prioritised investments in airport infrastructure and technology integration which resulted in upgrades in terminals, lounges, and waiting areas. Recognising the importance of customer service, FAAN has implemented training programmes resulting in a more welcoming and helpful environment for passengers. Under Mrs. Kuku’s leadership, FAAN has introduced more rigorous security protocols mainstreaming the deployment of advanced screening technologies and improved security personnel training to ensure a safe travel environment. FAAN has developed comprehensive emergency response plans that are regularly reviewed and updated. This ensures that airport staff are well-prepared to handle any incidents that may arise, thereby enhancing passenger confidence.
She fostered collaboration between FAAN, sister agencies, the aviation regulatory body, security agencies, and emergency services to ensure a coordinated approach to airport safety and security. The deployment of public awareness campaigns has equipped travelers with safety protocols and procedures, helping them to know what to expect and contribute to their own safety while at the airport. The success of the season is a testament to her visionary leadership and her unwavering commitment to nurturing growth in the tourism and entertainment sectors, which laid the foundation for the remarkable success of Detty December. Surely, the baseline will quadruple as we await the figures from other international airports like Abuja, Kano, Enugu, Portharcourt and other entry points.
- Dat, is an aviation industry strategist and former General Manager, Public Affairs, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria.
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