States warned against unviable airport projects

In recent days, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has raised concerns regarding the viability of new airport projects being pursued by state governments. Speaking during an online public engagement session, Kuku emphasized the importance of conducting comprehensive economic and feasibility studies before embarking on such large-scale infrastructure developments. Her remarks come amid growing interest among several states in constructing their own airports, often framed as initiatives aimed at improving regional connectivity and boosting local economies. Kuku highlighted that while airports are essential components of national infrastructure, they require substantial financial resources that extend far beyond the initial costs of constructing terminal buildings. She pointed out that the development of an airport involves significant expenditures related to runways, taxiways, and other facilities necessary to accommodate specific types of aircraft. Additionally, maintaining an airport to international standards demands considerable investment in safety infrastructure, such as firefighting equipment, trained aviation security personnel, and other essential services. According to Kuku, Nigeria's current aviation market remains relatively small compared to its overall population. In 2025, the country recorded approximately 17.5 million air travelers, representing less than 10 percent of its total population of about 220 million people. This statistic underscores the challenge of ensuring sufficient passenger and cargo traffic to sustain newly built airports. Kuku stressed that the success of an airport project hinges on its ability to generate consistent traffic, which in turn depends on factors such as industrial activity, commercial operations, and tourism within the surrounding region. To ensure the sustainability of airport projects, Kuku advised state governments to focus on creating environments conducive to economic growth. This includes developing sectors that can drive both passenger and cargo traffic, such as sports centers, event venues, manufacturing plants, and agricultural enterprises. She noted that airports flourish when they are integrated into broader transportation networks that include well-developed road and rail systems. Therefore, she called for a holistic approach to infrastructure planning that considers multiple modes of transport rather than focusing solely on airport construction. Despite recognizing the potential benefits of air travel in terms of safety and efficiency, Kuku urged state governments to address underlying issues related to transportation security and infrastructure development. While some states justify airport projects based on improved accessibility and safety, she argued that these initiatives should be part of a larger strategy to enhance overall transportation capabilities. This includes investing in rail networks and upgrading existing road infrastructures to support seamless movement of goods and people across regions. As discussions continue around the future of airport development in Nigeria, Kuku's warnings serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in such undertakings. The emphasis on thorough planning and strategic integration of airports into the broader economic landscape reflects a commitment to ensuring that these projects yield meaningful outcomes for both local communities and the nation as a whole. With careful consideration of all relevant factors, the hope is that upcoming airport ventures will contribute effectively to Nigeria's ongoing efforts toward sustainable development and enhanced connectivity.