The managing director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku said the Nigerian economy and revenue drive will be further boosted when there are investments in the exportation of food and other perishables by air.
The managing director stated this yesterday in Minna, Niger State after the commissioning of the refurbished Bola Tinubu International Airport.
She said Nigeria loses over N3 trillion worth of perishable goods yearly.
“At FAAN, one of our key aspirations is to help grow Nigeria’s economy through the facilitation of exports. We believe that with some investments in the right areas, we can put a huge dent in the N3.6 trillion worth of perishable goods lost annually,” she said.
Kuku thanked the state governor, Mr Umar Bago for speedily completing passenger terminal, saying it would contribute to the improvement of the state’s gross domestic product.
“The overhauling of the runway and construction of the passenger terminal in a very short timeline was a daunting task that required much expense and synergy between all parties involved.
“I am indeed grateful that this project will forever be seen as a symbol of our nation’s dedication to advancing infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and fostering economic growth,” she said.
Kuku also said she was excited by the governor’s promise to complete the cargo and international terminals within a short time, adding that the airport “will serve as a gateway to the world, facilitating trade, tourism, and collaboration on a global scale.”
She added: “We encourage him to do so as we cannot wait to assist the ambitions of the state to be the biggest food producer and food exporter in the country.”
“His commitment, drive and close monitoring contributed immensely to seeing this project delivered in record time and for this, we are indeed thankful.”
Kuku also said renaming the airport after Tinubu was historic and befitting, given the policy direction and implementations by his administration.
“This occasion not only pays tribute to a visionary leader but also signifies a new chapter in the development of our aviation industry.
“President Tinubu’s commitment to progress, innovation, and excellence is evident in all his policies and programmes and at FAAN, we are happy to have partnered with the equally visionary leadership of the Niger State government,” she stressed.
