UBA GMD Calls For Public-Private Collaboration

 The United Bank for Africa’s (UBA) Group Managing Direc­tor/CEO, Oliver Alawuba, has emphasised the need for public and private institutions to come together to build and revamp the nation’s assets.

He made this call when the newly renovated departure sec­tion of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, re­furbished by UBA, was officially commissioned on Friday, Decem­ber 20, 2024.

The laudable project, which marks a transformative moment in Nigeria’s aviation sector, under­scores UBA’s unwavering commit­ment to national development and highlights the immense value of strategic public-private partner­ships (PPPs).

The ceremony was graced by distinguished stakeholders, in­cluding the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Fes­tus Keyamo (SAN); the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, other di­rectors, and heads of agencies operating at the airport.

Speaking at the event, UBA’s Group Managing Director/CEO, Oliver Alawuba, lauded the collab­oration that brought the project to fruition as he emphasised the need for public and private institutions to come together to build and re­vamp the nation’s assets.

“This renovation is a testament of UBA’s belief in the transforma­tive power of investing in national assets. By modernising our air­ports, we not only enhance infra­structure but also position Nigeria as a global hub for tourism, trade, and investment,” he stated.

Alawuba took time to highlight the broader economic impact of such initiatives, urging increased private-sector participation in na­tional development.

“Public-private partnerships like this demonstrate what can be achieved when we unite for a shared vision of progress and in­vesting in infrastructure catalyses economic growth, improves travel experiences, and creates opportu­nities across various sectors of the economy,” he added.

Alawuba reflected on the pow­er of unity and collaboration, quoting Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

The commissioning of the ren­ovated departure section serves as a reminder of what strategic partnerships can achieve in driv­ing national development and ele­vating Nigeria’s global standing.”

While commissioning the proj­ect, Keyamo commended UBA for executing the project, a feat he termed a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s aviation sector. “This renovated departure section exemplifies the bank’s commit­ment to elevating aviation infra­structure, improving passenger experiences, and fostering in­ternational partnerships. It is a proud moment for the ministry and all stakeholders involved, and I thank the management of UBA for pioneering this initiative,” he remarked.

The minister highlighted oth­er key achievements of his min­istry, including compliance with the Cape Town Convention, the launch of a consumer protection portal, and advancements in ma­jor infrastructure projects such as the second runway at Abuja air­port and solar energy integration in airport operations.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive of FAAN, Mrs. Olubun­mi Kuku, commended UBA and other stakeholders for their con­tributions, adding, “This project reflects FAAN’s dedication to delivering world-class aviation infrastructure. The enhanced de­parture section not only elevates passenger experiences but also strengthens Nigeria’s competi­tive position in global aviation,” she said.