Babatunji WSusu –
- UBA’s Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, praised the transformative impact of public-private partnerships (PPPs) during the commissioning of the newly renovated departure section of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA).
- The renovation project, a collaboration between public and private sectors, is set to improve passenger experience and boost Nigeria’s aviation sector.
- Alawuba highlighted UBA’s 22-year relationship with FAAN and praised the strategic reforms led by the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, in revitalizing the sector.
At the commissioning of the newly renovated departure section of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) on Friday, Oliver Alawuba, the Group Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, emphasized the pivotal role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in driving Nigeria’s development. Alawuba described the completion of the renovation project as a significant achievement in enhancing the country’s aviation infrastructure, underscoring the power of collaboration between the public and private sectors.
The event, attended by key figures including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, celebrated the project’s potential to transform passenger experience and strengthen the nation’s aviation sector.
Reflecting on UBA’s long-standing partnership with FAAN, which spans over 22 years, Alawuba emphasized that investments in modern airport infrastructure are critical to fostering economic growth and positioning Nigeria as a global aviation hub. He further praised Minister Keyamo for his efforts in improving the aviation industry, including boosting Nigeria’s compliance with the Cape Town Convention, enhancing passenger experience through a new NCAA portal, and strengthening international aviation agreements.
Alawuba also lauded the leadership of FAAN for its innovative cost-saving measures, such as relocating its headquarters to Lagos and advancing solar energy initiatives. He encouraged corporate entities and private individuals to follow the example of this successful PPP and contribute to addressing the country’s pressing challenges.
The commissioning of the MMIA renovation marked a key step in transforming Nigeria’s aviation landscape, showcasing the potential of strategic partnerships in driving sustainable development.