Abuja, July 18, 2025 — The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, has advocated for the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to take the lead role in designing Nigeria’s Airport Master Plan, stating that the Ministry’s function should remain regulatory and policy-based rather than operational.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ engagement in Abuja, Dr. Kana lamented past instances where the Ministry interfered directly in the operations of its agencies, a move he described as counterproductive and detrimental to long-term aviation development. He stressed that such interference undermines the autonomy and efficiency of aviation agencies tasked with technical responsibilities.
According to him, “FAAN is better positioned with the operational know-how, institutional memory, and technical expertise needed to formulate a realistic and sustainable master plan for our airports. The Ministry must maintain its supervisory role and allow agencies to function professionally within their mandate.”
Dr. Kana further emphasized the importance of aligning Nigeria’s airport infrastructure development with international standards and best practices, noting that a comprehensive, well-executed master plan is crucial to transforming Nigeria into a regional aviation hub.
Industry stakeholders present at the event echoed his sentiments, calling for improved collaboration among aviation agencies while urging the Ministry to refrain from micromanaging technical departments.
The call comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to modernize its airport infrastructure, attract private investment, and enhance safety and efficiency in the aviation sector.
