In 2024, the Federal Government allocated N8.73 billion for enhancements to the power infrastructure at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, aimed at ensuring a reliable electricity supply for the new international terminal.
This information was reported on Wednesday by BudgIT’s transparency platform, GovSpend.
The majority of the funds were directed towards outsourced power supply, with N5.67 billion paid to J. Marine Logistics Ltd for electricity provision from March to September 2023.
Additionally, a payment of N2.19 billion was made in May 2024 for services covering the period from October to December 2023, along with N874.42 million as a partial payment for the same timeframe.
For the 2025 budget, the government has proposed N105.95 billion for the aviation sector, an increase from N63.32 billion in 2024. This budget includes N5 billion earmarked for energy improvements at airports and another N5 billion allocated for safety and security initiatives under the “Safety and Security Critical Projects and Airport Certification Nationwide” program.
These initiatives have been categorized as “ongoing” projects, designed to enhance operational efficiency and improve the overall passenger experience.
The Abuja airport has historically struggled with inconsistent power supply, which has disrupted operations and affected passenger satisfaction.
Essential services such as airfield lighting, baggage handling, and security systems have been compromised by power outages, raising significant safety concerns.
Aviation expert Olumide Odunayo praised the government's efforts to tackle these challenges but emphasized the need for sustainable solutions.
“The airport should build an alternate power source, probably using solar systems or windmills,” he suggested.
Odunayo highlighted the significant expenses associated with dependence on electricity distribution networks and diesel generators, characterizing them as unsustainable solutions.
“Power failures force dependence on diesel generators, which are costly and environmentally unfriendly,” he noted. He urged the adoption of renewable energy to lower costs and ensure reliability.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has emphasized its commitment to safety at its airports. Recently, the organization implemented essential facilities, trained its staff, and carried out safety drills to effectively respond to emergencies, including aircraft incidents, extreme weather conditions, and bomb threats.
In a media discussion in November, FAAN's Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, underscored the critical role of safety in aviation, stating, “Safety is the cornerstone of every airport operation and the highest priority in creating an environment that passengers and the public can trust.”
She also mentioned that FAAN has enhanced its security measures by incorporating advanced screening technologies, surveillance systems, and access control protocols.
Further initiatives include equipping personnel with operational tools such as safety boots, binoculars, and safety cones, as well as establishing safety libraries for research and data management purposes.
In May 2024, Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo disclosed that the Lagos airport incurs a monthly electricity cost of N1 billion.
He announced plans to shift towards solar power systems, in line with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s objective of achieving net-zero carbon emissions in the aviation sector.
“We are making cautious efforts towards embracing eco-friendly practices to reduce costs and environmental impact,” Keyamo said, adding that solar energy adoption could save 30 per cent of the monthly electricity costs.