LAGOS – Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has reiterated her commitment to professional excellence through its ongoing obligation to the Airport Management Professional Accreditation Programme (AMPAP).
Speaking at the recent AMPAP Alumni Meet and Greet in Lagos At the AMPAP Alumni Meet and Greet in Lagos, Kuku expressed her profound appreciation for the enlightening experience gained through the programme.
According to her, the value gained, extended beyond the curriculum, highlighting the crucial opportunity to build camaraderie, exchange perspectives and understand diverse approaches to problem-solving among her colleagues.
Kuku noted that the programme’s effectiveness stemmed from its practical approach, utilising real-life case studies to enhance understanding and application in current professional roles.
She particularly lauded the interactive structure, which she said encouraged active participation and emphasised the application of learned concepts through presentations.
She clarified that the presentations were not about finding definitive answers, but rather about demonstrating the ability to effectively apply and communicate acquired knowledge for practical implementation.
Also, Kuku acknowledged the significant commitment required for the programme, which included foundational and elective courses, and urged participants to remain dedicated to its completion.
She further stressed the importance of scheduling and prioritising the programme to ensure its successful conclusion and the attainment of a globally recognized qualification.
Mrs. Kuku encouraged attendees to fully engage in the networking session, expressing her eagerness to continue fostering connections and collaborating on innovative solutions for airport management in a relaxed and conducive environment.
Also, Oluwasola Awe, the Board Member, representing Africa in the AMPAP IAP Alumni Group, showcased Nigeria’s remarkable journey in advancing airport management expertise.
She commended FAAN for its steadfast investment in professional development.
She emphasised that FAAN’s involvement with AMPAP began in 2008, but the programme initially faced logistical challenges and shifting priorities.
She however said that the group had a breakthrough when three determined individuals – Emmanuel Chidera, Kabir Yusuf Mohammed and Vivian Meyanga successfully completed the program in 2014.
Awe expressed that their resilience exemplified the dedication required to achieve lasting success.
According to her, since 2014 FAAN had emerged as a leading contributor to Nigeria’s growing pool of International Airport Professionals (IAPs).
She pointed out that out of Nigeria’s 46 certified IAPs, 41 were FAAN staff, thereby further solidifying the country’s status as a leader in airport management across Africa.
She said: “This is a remarkable achievement, placing Nigeria at the forefront of airport management expertise in Africa.”
Nigeria now ranks alongside South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania as key players in this field, with 159 IAPs collectively across 23 African nations.
Awe reiterated that the aviation industry must remain proactive in addressing future challenges, particularly with artificial intelligence rapidly reshaping global industries.
Citing the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, the AMPAP Alumni board member warned that nearly 40 per cent of today’s skills risked becoming obsolete, stressing that continuous learning and strategic leadership were crucial for staying ahead.
In this regard, Awe commended FAAN’s senior management for enrolling in the AMPAP programme, saying this demonstrated a commitment to fostering leadership from within.
The next AMPAP IAP graduation is set to take place in September 2025 during the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Assembly in Montreal, marking another milestone in Nigeria’s growing influence in global aviation leadership.
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