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Tag: FAAN

  • Kwam 1 reacts to allegations of pouring alcohol on airport workers

    Kwam 1 reacts to allegations of pouring alcohol on airport workers

    Nigerian Fuji singer, King Wasui Ayinde Marshall, popularly known as Kwam 1 or K1 De Ultimate has finally addressed the controversy surrounding the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) while attempting to board a ValueJet flight.

    As earlier reported by TheNewsGuru.com(TNG), the FAAN spokesperson Obiageli Orah in a statement on Wednesday had accused the Fuji musician of spilling alcohol on airport workers during boarding at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Tuesday.

    Orah disclosed that the veteran singer was warned against carrying alcohol into the aeroplane; however, he refused to listen.

    Speaking, Kwam 1 through his Media Aide, Kunle Rasheed, disclosed that at no point did he act in a manner that endangered lives or breached safety regulations.

    Rasheed stated that the substance in question, which was wrongly sensationalised, was nothing more than plain drinking water, given to him at the airport lounge while waiting to board the aircraft.

    The statement emphasised that K1 was the victim in this incident, stressing, “No one else but him and his personal assistant was directly involved. A few concerned passengers who witnessed the incident firsthand appealed to him to remain calm, recognizing the undue pressure he was under.

    The statement added, “Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging that King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate) displayed unruly conduct while attempting to board a ValueJet flight on August 5, 2025, allegedly causing a breach of aviation protocol. We wish to categorically state that this narrative is not only exaggerated but also misleading.

    “At no point did K1 act in a manner that endangered lives or breached safety regulations. The substance in ,question which was sensationalised, was nothing more than plain drinking water, given to him at the airport lounge while he waited to board the aircraft. Despite his respectful effort to clarify this, the situation was unnecessarily escalated.

    “Claims that K1 blocked the aircraft or attempted to disrupt operations are completely unfounded. The veteran artiste, who is globally respected and frequently travels both locally and internationally, understands and strictly adheres to aviation protocols.

    “If indeed there had been anything inappropriate in his conduct, the Head of Airport Security, officials from relevant agencies such as FAAN and NCAA, as well as the Chairman and Managing Director of the airline, would not have reached out personally to appeal, tender apologies, and even go as far as arranging a private jet to fly him to Lagos at no cost. Despite persistent persuasion from the airline’s top executives, K1 graciously declined the offer.

    “In light of recent developments, it is important to note that the pilot involved now has her license suspended. Given the circumstances, it is no surprise if she attempts to deflect blame surely, she must lie to cover herself up.

    “We urge the media and the public to avoid sensationalism and allow the truth not assumptions to guide their judgment. K1 remains a law-abiding citizen and continues to cooperate fully with all relevant authorities to ensure that the matter is responsibly resolved.”

  • FAAN probes airport incident involving K1 De Ultimate

    FAAN probes airport incident involving K1 De Ultimate

    The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has addressed Tuesday’s incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, involving a musician and a ValueJet pilot.

    This is contained in a statement on Wednesday by Mrs Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection.

    Orah confirmed that King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also known as K1 De Ultimate, was due to board morning flight VK 201 to Lagos.

    She said preliminary findings confirmed the musician attempted to carry an unidentified liquid on board, in spite of repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) and the Flight Captain.

    She noted that under international standards, including Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Security Programme and ICAO Annex 17, liquids above 100ml must be declared and medically justified.

    The passenger was reportedly informed but declined to comply with the regulation.

    “As boarding continued, an airline security officer asked the passenger to step aside for clarification,” she said.

    Orah stated that the passenger allegedly refused and poured the liquid — later confirmed as alcohol — on the officer.

    She said the Flight Captain intervened but faced resistance and later ordered the aircraft door closed once boarding was complete.

    The passenger then moved to the front of the aircraft and refused to vacate the area, in spite of repeated instructions.

    Orah said the musician was eventually escorted away by AVSEC’s crime unit for investigation and was later released.

    “FAAN reiterates its firm commitment to the safety and security of all passengers, crew, and airport personnel,” she said.

    She added that FAAN would not condone actions that compromise operations or violate aviation safety rules, regardless of who is involved.

    “This matter is under thorough investigation. All responsible individuals will be held accountable according to the law,” Orah added.

    She further stressed FAAN’s dedication to professionalism, safety, and full regulatory compliance at all Nigerian airports.

  • Airports concession: What FG should do first – Aviation unions

    Airports concession: What FG should do first – Aviation unions

    Aviation unions on Wednesday urged the Federal Government to address labour-related issues before the take-off of the planned concession of airports across the country.

    The unions made the call during a joint congress at the headquarters of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in Lagos State.

    The unions are the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP) and the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association (ATSSSAN).

    The National President of NUATE, Mr Ben Nnabue, said that the issues regarding labour unions in the industry had not been resolved.

    Nnabue said they want clarity on how their conditions of service will be affected by the concessioning process. He called on the federal government to cancel to carry union members along in the process.

    The unionist, therefore, called on President Bola Tinubu to stop the concession of Enugu Airport to allow for bidding from interested persons.

    “We have also requested that cherry picking the airport is not the best, because the value picked from one airport is used to better another airport.

    “The plane cannot rise from one airport and come back to that airport; there are other airports that the plane will go to that will make that airport viable.

    “We have to come back to the table and design a system that will work for Nigeria and not cherry-pick some good airports and concession them,” he said.

    According to Nnabue, Nigeria’s constitution is against handing over public property to one company in terms of monopoly.

    “Because if a particular consortium takes over the airport, it means that the airport will run on a monopoly.

    “Another issue is that any state government that is interested in the airport should, like Lagos, get another place and build their own airport,” he said.

    Nnabue urged workers to remain steadfast in the struggle and not lose hope.

    On his part, the President General of ANAP, Mr Adedayo Alale, called on the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN), to revisit the concession process to avert workers’ strike.

    Alale, while commending the management of FAAN, said that after any renovation, the airport should be handed over to FAAN.

    He said: “So, if the minister wants to do it in the right way, let there be national dailies advertisements for six months,” he said.

    The Treasurer of NUATE, Safiya Araga, urged workers to support the movement as done by unionists before them.

    Araga said there was a lot to lose if workers kept quiet with the recent issues in the industry.

    The unionists held a procession from the FAAN headquarters to the General Aviation Terminal (GAT).

    The workers carried various placards reading: “Say no to concession because it is to sack staff”; “Concession Committee to be driven by FAAN”; “Resolve FAAN pension issues now”; resolve labour issues before concession”.

    While the government, through FAAN, has urged dialogue and collaboration, the unions remain firm in their demands for a transparent and worker-inclusive concession process.

    The unions have emphasised that they were not entirely against concessioning but insist that the process must be fair and equitable to all stakeholders.

  • FAAN defends controversial N712bn MMIA rehabilitation

    FAAN defends controversial N712bn MMIA rehabilitation

    The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has described the N712 billion rehabilitation of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) as a boost to aviation.

    FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, made the disclosure in a statement issued on Sunday.

    The proposed N712 billion rehabilitation of MMIA had generated diverse reactions after it was first announced by Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo.

    Kuku said the project reflects a forward-looking upgrade and firm commitment to travellers using the country’s main international gateway.

    She said that following Federal Executive Council approval, the MMIA would undergo major works to transform it into a world-class aviation facility.

    She said the works will include the rehabilitation and expansion of Terminal 1 (T1) at the MMIA.

    “As the busiest terminal in Nigeria, T1 will undergo full-scale modernisation.

    “This includes improvements to the exterior, interior, plumbing, and mechanical and electrical systems to meet global standards,” she said.

    Kuku also said Terminal 2 (T2) would be expanded to accommodate more wide-body aircraft.

    “This includes extending the boarding bridge area and apron, while existing hangars will be relocated for smooth execution of the project,” she said.

    She revealed that a new and efficient road network would be developed to reduce congestion and enhance access to the airport.

    A skywalk will link the car park building with T2, while a connection building will unify Terminals 1 and 2.

    “These works will merge the previously separate terminals, improving passenger flow and airport operations,” she explained.

    Kuku assured that during rehabilitation, a clean and organised temporary departure hall would be provided for passengers’ comfort.

    She added that the central square landscape would be redesigned to create a more welcoming environment for arriving passengers.

    “We’re not just rebuilding the terminal; we are elevating Nigeria’s aviation experience to global standards.

    “The new Terminal 1 will offer faster check-in, smarter security, better lounges, and more shopping options—all designed for travellers.

    “Your patience today helps us build a better MMIA tomorrow—more vibrant, convenient, and truly world-class.

    “We want every departure and arrival to be an experience Nigerians can be proud of,” Kuku said.

    She said the revamped terminal would place MMIA on an international level and make it West Africa’s top aviation hub.

    According to her, FAAN is reimagining MMIA—not only upgrading, but setting new global benchmarks in airport service.

    The rehabilitation covers international Terminal 1 phase 2 and expansion of Terminal 2, costing N712.25 billion.

    It also includes roads, bridges, and supporting infrastructure at MMIA.

    In Kano, N46.39 billion is allocated to rehabilitate Runways 06/26 and 05/23, and upgrade airfield lighting to CAT I level.

    At MMIA, N49.8 billion will fund the construction of a 10.6km perimeter fence, operational roads, CCTV, and solar-powered lighting systems.

    The Port Harcourt airport will receive N42.15 billion for runway and taxiway rehabilitation and lighting system upgrade to CAT I.

    Lagos’ domestic wing will benefit from N44.13 billion for runway and taxiway rehabilitation, with upgraded CAT II lighting systems.

    The rigid pavement reconstruction of Apron 6 phases 2 and 3 at MMA domestic terminal will cost N26.27 billion.

    The total cost of phased rehabilitation across these airports stands at N919.11 billion.

  • FAAN opens airspace for flights after Air Peace incident

    FAAN opens airspace for flights after Air Peace incident

    The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) says the airspace has been opened for flight operations after a Port Harcourt runway incident involving an Air Peace flight P47190 from Lagos.

    This is contained in an updated statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN, Mrs Obiageli Orah on Sunday in Lagos.

    The incident occured Sunday morning and FAAN had earlier confirmed that there was no casualty recorded in the incident.

    Orah said that the Landing distance was now 2700 metres instead of the stipulated 3000 metres.

    According to Orah, the aircraft with registration number 5N-BQQ, departed from Lagos (LOS) and landed at Port Harcourt International Airport (PHIA) at approximately 7.45 a.m.

    It said that the aircraft overshot runway 03 upon landing.

    “We are relieved to report that there were no casualties. Evacuation of the 127 passengers has been completed safely with no casualties.

    “In the interim, please plan for flight delays for any departing flights to Port Harcourt”.

    It also said that further details would be provided when available.

    She also reaffirmed FAAN’s commitment to the safety and security of the passengers.

  • FAAN reacts as Air Peace opens up on near-air mishap

    FAAN reacts as Air Peace opens up on near-air mishap

    The management of Air Peace has confirmed that Flight P47190, from Lagos to Port Harcourt, skidded off the runway after landing safely on Sunday morning.

    This is confirmed in a statement signed by the airline’s spokesperson, Efe Osifo-Whiskey, and released to journalists in Lagos on Sunday.

    Osifo-Whiskey stated that the aircraft slightly veered off the runway after landing, but there was no damage to the aircraft.

    “All passengers disembarked safely and calmly. No injuries were recorded in the process,” he said.

    He added that Air Peace remains committed to upholding the highest safety standards in all its flight operations.

    According to him, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria have been duly notified.

    “An appropriate investigation will be conducted on the aircraft,” Osifo-Whiskey noted.

    No casualty recorded in Air Peace’s Port Harcourt runway incident – FAAN

    Meanwhile, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed that no casualty is recorded in the Port Harcourt runway incident involving Air Peace’s flight P47190 from Lagos.

    This is contained in a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN, Mrs Obiageli Orah, on Sunday in Lagos.

    The incident occurred on Sunday morning.

    According to Orah, the aircraft, with registration number 5N-BQQ, departed Lagos (LOS) and landed at the Port Harcourt International Airport (PHIA), at approximately 7.45 a.m.

    She said that the aircraft overshot runway 03 upon landing.

    Orah stated: “We are relieved to report that there were no casualties. Evacuation of the 127 passengers has been completed safely with no casualties.

    “In the interim, please plan for flight delays for any departing flights to Port Harcourt.”

    She also said that further details would be provided when available.

    Orah also reaffirmed FAAN’s commitment to the safety and security of the passengers.

  • FAAN, Customs intensify efforts to exit Nigeria from FATF grey list

    FAAN, Customs intensify efforts to exit Nigeria from FATF grey list

    The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) are collaborating to combat money laundering and remove Nigeria from the FATF grey list.

    The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an intergovernmental organisation founded in 1989 on the initiative of the G7 to develop policies to combat money laundering. In 2001, its mandate was expanded to include terrorism financing.

    FAAN Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, said both agencies are working closely to reduce illicit financial activities across Nigeria’s borders.

    She disclosed this on Thursday during a joint tour of the cargo terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos.

    Kuku said the partnership targets currency declarations exceeding the $10,000 threshold, both for passengers arriving and departing Nigeria.

    She advised all travellers to declare any currency above $10,000 when entering or leaving the country.

    Kuku noted that several measures have already been implemented, including enhanced security screening and improvements to passenger processing.

    She said efforts are ongoing to reduce multiple checkpoints and streamline passenger movement through upgraded procedures.

    Kuku confirmed the NCS, through its Controller General, had committed to heightened security and better passenger service.

    She observed increased cargo activity nationwide, prompting a need for enhanced security and improved operational efficiency.

    Kuku stated that operators at the cargo shed had undergone re-registration to boost transparency and accountability.

    This, she explained, is part of efforts to restore order and visibility at cargo terminals nationwide.

    The FAAN boss appreciated NCS’s support in improving passenger experience and business operations.

    NCS Controller General, Adewale Adeniyi, said the visit aimed to build shared understanding of both agencies’ roles in national security.

    He explained that FAAN handles aviation security while NCS focuses on flight facilitation, documentation, revenue and national protection.

    Adeniyi stressed that none of these efforts should compromise passenger experience or convenience.

    He highlighted recent improvements at airports, noting visible upgrades in structure, processes, and passenger facilities.

    He said the aim is to build upon these changes and enhance the overall experience for all airport users.

    On Nigeria’s FATF grey list status, Adeniyi expressed satisfaction with FAAN’s current efforts and initiatives.

    He praised the creation of dedicated spaces for currency declarations at the airports.

    He also revealed plans to merge the currency declaration form with passenger arrival cards from Immigration.

    In the meantime, he said existing systems were sufficient to meet FATF inspection requirements.

    Adeniyi added that regular announcements would remind passengers of the need to declare currency above the set threshold.

    He noted that the meeting fostered discussions on shared concerns and opportunities between FAAN and NCS.

    He welcomed recent attention to export processes, particularly the time-sensitive handling of goods.

    Adeniyi criticised the high rejection rate of Nigerian exports caused by poor storage and delays at airports.

    He commended private operators introducing measures to boost Nigeria’s export volume.

    He also emphasised the importance of integrating advanced technology into operations, especially non-intrusive systems.

    Adeniyi stressed the need for nationwide standardisation to ensure consistent passenger experience across all airports.

    He disclosed that a FATF inspection team is expected in Nigeria within weeks.

    According to him, Nigeria has implemented sufficient measures to meet FATF standards and exit the grey list.

    He said the meeting would deepen inter-agency collaboration and address other operational challenges.

    Other airport security agencies also joined the tour.

  • FAAN gives update as MMIA terminal one undergoes major renovation

    FAAN gives update as MMIA terminal one undergoes major renovation

    The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, says major renovations will soon take place at Terminal One of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

    Kuku made this known during an interactive session at the FAAN Directorate of Commercial and Business Development Stakeholder Engagement, with the theme: “Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Growth and Development.”

    She explained that the renovations were long overdue but had been delayed due to pending approvals and other contingencies.

    Kuku, however, clarified that contrary to reports suggesting a total demolition of the terminal, she said only specific sections of the building would be affected during the renovation process.

    “Rumours will come, rumours will go, but I assure you, we are not reconstructing. What we are doing is renovating,” she said.

    Kuku assured airport concessionaires and stakeholders that they would be fully carried along throughout the process.

    “Before the renovation begins, no matter your position, whether you operate a shop or hold a space, you will be duly notified and involved.

    “There are many aspects to consider. We initially planned to complete the work in one to two years, but please be assured that you will be part of every step. We are awaiting final approvals, and I apologise for any confusion that may have arisen,” she said.

    On modernisation efforts, Kuku disclosed that new airport equipment, including jet bridges and conveyor belts, had already arrived in the country.

    “As we speak, all the new jet bridges required are already in the country, although installation has not yet commenced. Even brand new conveyor belts are here,” she added.

    She noted that the renovation would be executed in phases, starting with the departure area, while the arrival hall, or possibly a temporary departure facility,  would be used to manage operations during construction.

    Kuku also addressed operational limitations of the current avio bridges, particularly their inability to accommodate multiple wide-body aircraft simultaneously.

    Regarding concerns about vendors and operators being asked to vacate the terminal, she clarified:

    “What I said was to slow down on renewals and new applications into Terminal One so that we can plan effectively.

    “The last thing I want is to approve a renewal and collect fees, only to start renovations in that same area shortly after. That’s why we’re sensitising everyone.”

    She commended the airport managers and other staff for keeping operations running smoothly amid the upcoming changes.

  • FG moves to address violations of airspace by foreign aircraft

    FG moves to address violations of airspace by foreign aircraft

    The Federal Government has taken steps to address the trend of airspace violations by foreign aircraft operating within the sovereign airspace of Nigeria without appropriate operational clearance.

    This was disclosed at a high-level inter-agency stakeholder meeting convened by the Ministry of Defence in Abuja and contained in a statement by the Personal Assistant on media to the Minister of State for Defence, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, released on Tuesday in Abuja.

    Dan-Wudil said the meeting was chaired by the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru and Dr Bello Matawalle, in collaboration with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

    He said the meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Amb. Gabriel Aduda, and representative from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

    According to him, others in attendance are representatives of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS); the National Intelligence Agency (NIA); the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS); and the Office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

    “Also in attendance were representatives from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

    “The meeting was convened in continuation of deliberations from the previous meeting held on Nov. 11, 2024 at the ONSA.

    “The focus of today’s meeting was the persistent pattern of unauthorized and often uncoordinated incursions into Nigerian airspace by foreign-operated aircraft and rotorcraft platforms—an act deemed a serious violation of national sovereignty and aviation safety ,” he said.

    Dan-Wudil said that the key areas of the discussion included, Joint Review of an Air Defence System and TRACON capabilities, coordinated between the Ministries of Defence and Aviation.

    He said the ministers reaffirmed the resolve of the federal government to protect and defend the territorial integrity of the nation against all forms of incursion, including those by air.

    According to him, President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Administration remains committed and unrelenting in the defence of Nigeria’s sovereign airspace.

  • Aviation contributes $1.7bn to Nigeria’s GDP – FAAN

    Aviation contributes $1.7bn to Nigeria’s GDP – FAAN

    The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Friday said that aviation now contributes 1.7 billion dollars to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Products (GDP).

    The Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, said that the huge contribution was a testament to the efficacy of market-driven solutions in Nigeria’s aviation industry.

    Kuku made the remarks at a book launch, with the title: “100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria”, authored by Mr Wole Shadare, in Lagos.

    She said that the milestone was achieved as a result of private sector involvement in the aviation industry.

    “Upon Nigeria’s attainment of independence in 1960, we were faced with a pivotal question: How could we convert colonial-era infrastructure into a sovereign aviation powerhouse?

    “Our national carrier, Nigeria Airways, emerged as a response, yet it soon faced challenges stemming from mismanagement and operational inefficiencies. By the early 2000s, we found ourselves at a crossroad – adapt or risk obsolescence.

    “This juncture precipitated a remarkable transformation. The private sector took the initiative, introducing fresh capital, contemporary management practices, and a competitive spirit,” Kuku said.

    She said that companies such as Air Peace and Arik Air did not merely fill the void, but they revolutionised the aviation landscape.

    “The current figures sum up this transformation: 39 certified airline operators, 31 airports nationwide, over 2,100 licensed pilots, a workforce comprising thousands, ranging from engineers to air traffic controllers.

    “Nigeria has emerged as a testament to the efficacy of market-driven solutions. Our aviation sector now contributes approximately 1.7 billion dollars to our GDP.

    “Private airlines are connecting our cities with unprecedented efficiency, and international carriers increasingly regard Nigeria as a critical market,” the FAAN boss said.

    She disclosed that over 16 million passengers traversed Nigeria’s domestic terminals, while international passenger numbers exceeded 3.5 million.

    Kuku said that the figures were impressive, yet there remained substantial potential for growth.

    “While challenges persist, infrastructure deficiencies; regulatory frameworks; and financing requirements; these should be perceived not as obstacles, but rather as opportunities.

    “Each challenge facing our aviation sector represents a potential investment awaiting realisation.

    “The forthcoming chapter of Nigerian aviation will be authored by those who recognise that our skies are not merely thoroughfares for aircraft, they are highways to prosperity,” she said.

    According to her, the inquiry is not whether to invest in Nigerian aviation, but rather, how to engage in this transformative journey.

    Speaking on the book, she said  Shadare provided a perspective to comprehend how far the sector had advanced, as well as an examination of the flight path ahead.

    “The industry and commitment he has exhibited as a journalist are evident throughout this book that we all convened here to celebrate,” Kuku said.