PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has issued a firm directive banning the sale or transfer of any property owned by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), particularly those located within or around airport premises.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed the directive yesterday during a briefing with journalists after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
He clarified that the order overrides all previous attempts by past administrations to liquidate FAAN assets, emphasizing that such properties are crucial national resources that must remain under government control.
According to Keyamo, the decision also ensures that essential aviation staff—such as firefighters and air traffic controllers—retain on-site accommodation to facilitate quick response during emergencies.
“These properties will not be handed over to private individuals. Anyone who thinks they’ve acquired one should have a rethink,” he warned.
The FEC also approved eight key initiatives aimed at strengthening the aviation sector’s safety, technology, and security.
Among the approvals were contracts for the maintenance and technical support of Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) systems at Nigeria’s five major international airports in Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu.
Additionally, the council sanctioned the installation of advanced Terrestrial Trunked Radio (TETRA) infrastructure nationwide, along with 14 VHF remote communication units for the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to improve air navigation efficiency.
To align with international aviation standards, approval was also given for the procurement of 15 specialized airport rescue and firefighting trucks for the same major airports.
Keyamo announced that NAMA, which currently leases office space in Abuja, would soon move into a purpose-built headquarters to ensure operational security and efficiency.
On airport privatization, the minister revealed that the FEC had approved a feasibility study for the proposed concession of Port Harcourt International Airport.
He noted a surge in private sector interest, with over six companies expressing readiness to invest—contrasting with the lack of interest under previous administrations.
He assured aviation unions that the process would not lead to staff layoffs.
Further approvals included plans for a biometric passenger screening system integrated with the National Identification Number (NIN) database to curb impersonation and enhance security.
“Many passengers use fake identities. This technology will verify their true identities in real time,” Keyamo explained.
The FEC also endorsed budget allocations for installing runway lighting systems at several airports to extend their operational hours.
Keyamo noted that the improvement would allow airports to function until late at night, boosting airline profitability.
He appealed to aviation labour unions to support the government’s ongoing reforms, stressing that while he remains committed to workers’ welfare, “labour unions cannot overrule executive directives.”