AT the recently concluded Airport Council International (ACI) Africa General Assembly, held in Johannesburg, South Africa, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), emerged as one of the event’s most prominent voices.
Positioned as a key jurist on the prestigious Airport CEO’s panel, Mrs Kuku delivered a compelling speech that showcased her deep understanding of airport development in Africa, her dynamic leadership at FAAN and her keen insights into Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Her participation in the panel was part of the wider agenda of the global conference and international airshow, a gathering of key stakeholders in the aviation industry. The event brought together professionals from across the globe, all focused on advancing the future of airport management, development and sustainability in Africa and beyond. However, amidst the array of discussions, Mrs Kuku’s contributions stood out, further solidifying her place as a visionary leader in Africa’s aviation sector.
Mrs Kuku’s discourse during the panel was not only insightful but underscored her commitment to seeing African airports reach global standards.
She touched on the unique challenges African airports face, including infrastructure deficits, financial constraints and evolving safety regulations. Yet, her outlook was far from bleak. She emphasised the untapped potential within the continent, calling for increased public-private partnerships and investments in modern infrastructure that can handle the growing demand for air travel in Africa.
Her remarks reflected a deep understanding of the evolving aviation landscape and the critical role airports play in economic development. “We must see our airports not just as transit points but as economic hubs capable of transforming local economies and driving growth,” Mrs Kuku stated, drawing a wave of agreement from fellow panellists and audience members alike.
Among her notable highlights was Nigeria’s recent improvement in its rating by the Aviation Working Group (AWG), moving from a score of 49.5 to an impressive 70. This leap, she explained, is a reflection of the rigorous reforms initiated within the Nigerian aviation sector, including improved compliance with international safety standards and enhanced governance within the industry.
This development, Mrs Kuku noted, is a direct result of the policies being implemented by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo. She praised the minister’s dedication to reforming the sector and ensuring Nigeria remains a key player in global aviation. “The Honourable Minister is towing the path as laid down by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and his impact is already being felt,” Mrs Kuku emphasised, adding that Nigeria’s upward rating would not only attract more investors but would also open the door for expanded global partnerships.
Perhaps what captivated the audience most was not only Mrs Kuku’s eloquence but also her administrative charisma. Her leadership, both in FAAN and on the global stage, has not gone unnoticed. During the conference, she earned the unanimous vote of confidence from the ACI Governing Board, a testament to her contributions to the advancement of airport management in Nigeria and Africa at large.
Her recognition speaks volumes about the trust and respect she commands in the aviation industry. It is a reflection of her tireless work to position Nigerian airports as world-class hubs and to ensure that the aviation sector contributes meaningfully to the nation’s economic growth.
Beyond her achievements and leadership, Mrs Kuku’s presence at ACI served as a powerful inspiration for aspiring female leaders across the continent. As a woman of substance, she embodies the perfect combination of beauty, brains and boldness – a dynamic leader unafraid to take on the challenges of a male-dominated industry. Her success is a beacon of hope for young women aspiring to break barriers and ascend to leadership positions in aviation and other sectors.
Her speech at ACI was not just a display of technical expertise but also a powerful reminder that women can lead with both grace and authority. She has proven that with determination, resilience and the right vision, female leaders can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their male counterparts and drive meaningful change.
Mrs Olubunmi Kuku’s stellar performance at the ACI Africa General Assembly has once again reaffirmed her position as one of Africa’s foremost aviation leaders. Her intelligence, eloquence and visionary approach to airport management have not only earned her admiration but also placed Nigeria’s aviation industry in the global spotlight.
As she continues to spearhead development initiatives at FAAN, Mrs Kuku remains a shining example of what can be achieved through dedicated leadership and an unrelenting focus on progress. She is not just a leader for today but a role model for the female leaders of tomorrow, proving that with the right mindset and commitment, African women can excel in any field they choose.
Tunde Moshood is the Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
