The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has reported that a minimum of 122 employees are stationed at Minna Airport in Niger State, despite the airport not facilitating any commercial flights. This information was shared by FAAN's Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, during the 9th Airport Business Summit and Expo held in Lagos, which featured a  theme: “Airport Viability is Key to Successful Aviation Business Ambition.”

She expressed her concern that numerous airports in Nigeria had not resulted in a rise in passenger traffic, while many non-viable airports persisted in depleting the resources of FAAN.

Kuku remarked that, despite the anticipated 261 million passenger traffic for Africa by 2025, Nigeria was merely beginning to tap into its potential.

She said, “The majority of our facilities are operating below capacity; it’s very clear. Let me even shift from the international or the regional airports and look at the domestic terminals. I believe we have about 122 staff that are working in Mina. Today there is no single flight for commercial operations that is flying out of Mina but despite that, let’s look at the positives.

“And when I look at the population of Nigeria, exceeding 220 million, and the number of passengers that we have flying on both our domestic and international routes, you will know that we’re barely scratching the surface.

“And this has absolutely nothing to do with the number of airports that we have, but largely around economic growth and development. I continue to tell people that it’s not about building airports. Passenger traffic is driven. It’s driven by GDP growth and economic development.

“Despite the challenges that we have as a nation, the FX fluctuations, the inflation issues that we have, it is very evident that our geographic positioning as a nation puts us in the place where we can drive.”

Recently, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, expressed concerns that non-viable airports pose a significant risk to the sustainability of the aviation sector.

He urged industry stakeholders to develop practical strategies that would propel Nigeria into the next stage of its aviation advancement.

Keyamo, represented by the Ministry's Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, highlighted that the ministry's stance is based on a recent report from FAAN indicating that only three airports in Nigeria are financially viable.

Numerous state governments have invested substantial funds in airport development without adequately assessing their viability, often resulting in these airports being handed over to the federal government.

According to the minister, the federal government is committed to making its airports viable.

He said, “Airport viability is indispensable in the pursuit of a successful aviation business ambition. By recognising its significance and collectively committing to its enhancement, we can steer the sector towards greater prosperity, resilience, and excellence.

“I want to charge all delegates and experts here present to work towards coming up with actionable plans that will usher Nigeria into the next phase of its Aviation growth.

“Without strong, efficient and sustainable airports, the aviation industry will struggle to reach its full potential. But with strategic investments, innovative approaches, and collaborative efforts, we can ensure that airports continue to be dynamic engines of growth and opportunity for the entire aviation ecosystem.”

Dr. Richard Aisuebeogun, a former Managing Director of FAAN, highlighted the importance of route development and revenue optimization for the long-term viability of state airports.

He pointed out that implementing effective strategies is crucial for improving airport connectivity and logistics throughout Nigeria.

Aisuebeogun remarked that the establishment of airports in almost every state is intended to enhance connectivity and facilitate the movement of passengers and cargo.

“The goal of having airports in nearly all 36 states is to enhance connectivity and logistical inclusion for passengers and cargo. However, the success of this national ambition will depend on the airports’ economic sustainability and usability,” he stated.