The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, has assured that all federal government-owned airports are fully insured, countering recent concerns raised by industry players about gaps in coverage.
At the 5th CHINET Aviacargo Conference held during the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market in Lagos, Capt. Edward Boyo, CEO of Overland Airways, had warned that the lack of proper insurance for airports was undermining domestic airline operations.
Responding to the claim, Kuku told LEADERSHIP that FAAN’s records confirm all facilities under its management have their insurance policies up to date.
“Clarifying that all FGN airports managed by FAAN are insured with the insurance up to date. Derubberization and runway hygiene have been intact, and records are available,” she said.
While dismissing the insurance concerns, Kuku acknowledged that other operational challenges persist, particularly bird strikes and runway integrity. She noted that FAAN is collaborating with relevant stakeholders to curb wildlife hazards around airports, which continue to threaten flight safety.
“The only area I would concur on is habitation and community issues that have impacted wildlife and bird strikes. We have been working closely with stakeholders to control them,” she explained.
Kuku further disclosed that FAAN is undertaking structural overhauls and gradual repairs on runways that have either exceeded their lifespan or developed engineering issues.
“The historical runway issues are being corrected gradually with complete overhauls and maintenance in some cases,” she said, stressing that safety remains the Authority’s top priority.
