The Nigerian aviation industry has entered a fresh chapter as Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, former Governor of Kano State and ex-National Chairman of the APC, was officially inaugurated as Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Board, alongside seven other members. The inauguration took place on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, in Abuja.
This appointment, which follows Ganduje’s resignation from his party chairmanship, has stirred both optimism and scrutiny — signaling a powerful pivot in Nigeria’s aviation management landscape.
Who Are the New Board Members?
The nine-member FAAN board includes representatives from strategic sectors and ministries:
Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje – Chairman
Olubunmi Kuku – FAAN Managing Director
Representatives from:
Ministry of Aviation
Ministry of Defence
Ministry of Tourism
Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA)
Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)
Public and private sector aviation professionals
This composition is expected to offer a mix of governance experience, technical insight, and policy strategy to guide FAAN into a new phase of reform.
Festus Keyamo Sets the Tone
At the inauguration, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, described the event as a turning point in institutional efficiency. He emphasized the critical role the board will play in ensuring that FAAN operates within legal boundaries and prioritizes public interest.
“I’m confident that this board will raise the bar in aviation governance. With your collective experience, we can expect better airport infrastructure, passenger experience, and adherence to international standards,” Keyamo noted.
In a lighter moment, he said of Ganduje:
“He will just press one button and money will come out,”— a remark that drew laughter and hinted at the board’s expected resourcefulness in securing funding for aviation upgrades.
Ganduje’s Message: Collaboration and Reforms
In his acceptance speech, Ganduje committed to studying the FAAN Act thoroughly, ensuring the board operates within its legal jurisdiction.
He outlined his top priorities:
Improving passenger satisfaction
Enhancing infrastructure across Nigerian airports
Fostering inter-agency collaboration
Promoting transparency and accountability
He stated,
“Our work begins immediately. We will bring attitude change to the sector and collaborate with all aviation stakeholders to bring renewed hope to the Nigerian people.”
Early Engagement: Airport Tour
Shortly after the inauguration, Ganduje made a symbolic move — leading a tour of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. This was his first official engagement, where he assessed the state of infrastructure and ongoing renovation projects. His visit emphasized the board’s commitment to real-time engagement and hands-on leadership.
Public Reaction: Mixed Sentiments
Ganduje’s appointment has drawn divided opinions:
Supporters say his administrative background and political influence will boost development and funding for Nigeria’s aging airport systems.
Critics, however, cite past corruption allegations and question the optics of the appointment given his previous controversies.
Industry professionals call for close monitoring to ensure transparency and a genuine focus on passenger experience.
Despite mixed views, many agree that the board’s actions in the coming months will determine the public’s confidence in its mission.
The appointment of Dr. Ganduje and the new FAAN board marks a decisive moment in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Whether this will bring much-needed reform or fuel further controversy remains to be seen. However, what’s clear is that with the right strategy and execution, FAAN could be transformed into a world-class institution — and this board holds the keys.
