Pecohub President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive forbidding the sale or transfer of any properties belonging to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, that are situated within or around airport premises across the country.
The policy was disclosed on Thursday, November 6, by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, at the State House in Abuja, shortly after the Federal Executive Council, FEC, meeting.
Keyamo explained that the presidential order overrides any previous asset disposal arrangements initiated by past administrations, emphasizing that FAAN’s properties are crucial national assets that must remain under government control.
He noted that maintaining on-site housing for essential aviation staff, such as firefighters and air traffic controllers, is critical for rapid response during emergencies, reinforcing the need to safeguard airport-linked properties.
“These properties will not be handed over to private entities.
“If anyone thinks they’ve acquired one, they should reconsider,” the minister warned.
The minister further revealed that the FEC had approved eight new initiatives designed to strengthen the aviation sector through improved safety, modern technology, enhanced security, and better management practices.
Among the approved projects were maintenance and technical support contracts for Aeronautical Information Management, AIM, systems across Nigeria’s five major international airports — Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu.
The Council also endorsed the deployment of advanced Terrestrial Trunked Radio, TETRA, infrastructure and the installation of 14 Very High Frequency, VHF, remote communication systems for the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, to enhance airspace communication and safety.
To meet International Civil Aviation Organisation, ICAO, standards, approval was granted for the acquisition of 15 specialized airport rescue and firefighting vehicles, to be deployed at the country’s main international airports.
Keyamo also announced that NAMA, which currently leases office space in Abuja, will soon move into a purpose-built headquarters, citing the security risks of operating sensitive command centers within commercial buildings.
Additionally, the FEC approved an economic viability study for the potential concession of Port Harcourt International Airport’s operations. Keyamo disclosed that private sector interest in the concession has grown significantly.
“Prior to our tenure, interest was nonexistent. Today, more than six firms are vying for the opportunity,” he stated, assuring labour unions that no employee would lose their job as a result of the concession process.
Other FEC approvals included the implementation of a National Identification Number, NIN, linked biometric screening system for all passengers to combat identity fraud and strengthen security measures at airports.
“Far too many flyers use bogus IDs. This tech will verify identities in real time,” Keyamo explained.
The Council also ratified the 2024 budget allocations for the installation of modern runway lighting systems at select airports to support 24-hour flight operations and boost airline efficiency.
“Certain airports close at 6 p.m. due to absent lights. These enhancements will extend service to 10 or 11 p.m.,” he noted.
Keyamo appealed to aviation unions to support the government’s reform agenda, reaffirming his commitment to protecting workers’ interests while stressing that labour organisations cannot override executive decisions.
