Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Aviation, Abdullahi Garba
By Sade Williams
The House of Representatives Committee on Aviation has called for the review and restructuring of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN’s) Directorates and Departments for optimal operational efficiency, clarity of roles, and seamless service delivery across all functions.
Chairman of the Committee, Abdullahi Garba, who was represented by his Vice, Festus Akingbaso, specifically said the Procurement Department should be designated as a full-fledged Department, strategically domiciled under the Office of the Chief Accounting Officer of FAAN, in strict compliance with the provisions of the Public Procurement Act, 2007.
This strategic alignment, he said will not only bolster accountability and adherence to regulatory frameworks but also contribute to a leaner, more responsive structure, leading to significantly more effective and efficient services.
Garba made this call during the opening ceremony of the FAAN Governing Board Retreat held in Lagos on Wednesday.
While highlighting a few areas he said deserve the Board’s immediate and sustained attention at the retreat themed: ‘Future-Proofing FAAN: Leadership, Modernization & Strategic Renewal’, he also called on the Board to invest in and uphold the highest standards of safety and security protocols across all Nigerian airports by adopting best global practices to safeguard lives and assets, adding that the safety and security of Nigeria’s airports and airspaces must remain non-negotiable.
Speaking on Sustainable Aviation Practices, he urged the Board to champion initiatives that reduce carbon footprint, enhance energy efficiency, and foster long-term environmental sustainability within FAAN’s operations.
Garba noted that o In an era of increasing environmental consciousness, promoting environmentally friendly and sustainable aviation operations is not just good practice, but an imperative.
He charged the Board to explore innovative ways to significantly enhance the overall quality of service and experience for passengers, from check-in to departure and arrival, ensuring our airports are not just transit points, but welcoming gateways, noting, ‘the comfort and satisfaction of the travelling public should be at the core of FAAN’s mission.’
On collaboration for succès, Garba urged the Board to actively seek out and cultivate partnerships that bring in expertise, technology, and investment, thereby expanding FAAN’s capabilities and reach.
“Fostering robust collaborations with local and international stakeholders is essential for driving growth and development in the aviation sector.”, he said.
Garba, who expressed confidence in the leadership if Abdullahi Ganduje pledged coopération of the House to take FAAN to an enviable geighty.
“Your track record of exemplary leadership, vision, and dedication to public service precedes you, and I speak for the entire House Committee on Aviation when I say that we have the highest degree of confidence in your capacity to catapult FAAN to a position of excellence, not just within Nigeria but across the African continent. We are assured that under your astute guidance, FAAN will reach unprecedented heights.
“The House Committee on Aviation stands ready to offer its full cooperation and support to your Board. We understand the critical role FAAN plays in our national development, and we are committed to working collaboratively to achieve our shared goals for a robust and efficient aviation sector.”, he added.
