Tinubu names Ganduje new FAAN board chairman shortly after he quit as APC leader.
At the event, officials praised his experience and promised better airport services ahead.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), just days after Ganduje stepped down as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The formal inauguration took place in Abuja and was conducted by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. Minister Festus Keyamo, who presided over the event, also welcomed several other new board members drawn from critical government sectors and aviation-related institutions.
In his remarks, Keyamo described the inauguration as a major step forward for Nigeria’s aviation sector, highlighting the administration’s focus on service improvement, safety, and sustainable growth.
“This event represents a renewed dedication to progress in the aviation industry. We are here to support the transformation of our airports into world-class facilities and contribute meaningfully to national development,” the minister stated.
He welcomed Ganduje to the new role and expressed confidence in his leadership. In a lighthearted moment, Keyamo added that Ganduje’s political experience would help attract funding, joking, “He will just press one button, and money will come out.”
In his response, Ganduje expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the opportunity and pledged to offer focused and responsible leadership. He said the board would work within legal frameworks and maintain harmony with FAAN’s management and the supervising ministry.
“We will carefully review the FAAN Act to guide our operations. Our aim is to strengthen service delivery, uphold regulations, and ensure our airports reflect a positive image of the country,” Ganduje noted. He also emphasized the need for a change in attitude across the aviation industry, promising that the board would focus on improving passenger satisfaction and meeting global standards.
Also speaking at the event, FAAN Managing Director and CEO, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, said the new board marks the beginning of a new phase for the authority. She expressed optimism that the leadership would bring about increased efficiency, transparency, and customer-friendly operations.
“With the calibre of individuals on this board, I’m certain we are stepping into a more productive era. The improvements will be visible to all,” she said.
Other members of the newly inaugurated FAAN board include Engr. T. P. Vembe, who represents the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development; Ms. Dorothy Duruak, representing the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy; and Ahmed Ibrahim Suleiman from the Ministry of Defence.
Also on the board are Engr. Nasiru Muazu, a dean at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology; Dr. Omozojie Okoboh from the Federal Ministry of Justice, who also serves as board secretary; and Mrs. Bridget Gold, FAAN’s Director of Legal Services and Legal Adviser.
The board is expected to provide strategic guidance that will drive positive change in Nigeria’s airport infrastructure and services.
