Ken Okeke
The Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, alongside members of the FAAN Governing Board, the Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, and other senior management officials, has paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Edet Otu.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Ganduje expressed appreciation to the Governor for the warm reception accorded the FAAN delegation. He emphasised the importance of strengthening collaboration between FAAN and the Cross River State Government towards the sustainable development of Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, and the broader aviation sector.
Responding, Governor Bassey Edet Otu thanked the FAAN Board Chairman, the Managing Director/CE and members of the delegation for the visit. He presented the state government’s aviation master plan and highlighted key areas of potential collaboration, particularly the ongoing upgrade of the international wing of Margaret Ekpo International Airport.
According to the Governor, the upgrade is aimed at positioning the airport to meet the expected demands associated with the forthcoming 6th African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network Investment Conference (AfSNET 2026), which Cross River State is scheduled to host.
As part of his support for airport operations, Governor Otu presented a Ford Ranger pickup vehicle to the management team of Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, to strengthen operational activities and enhance service delivery.
Following the courtesy visit, the FAAN Governing Board and management proceeded to the airport for an inspection of ongoing infrastructure works. The delegation inspected the ongoing runway upgrade project as well as the newly installed 500KVA solar power system, reflecting ongoing efforts towards the adoption of sustainable and green energy solutions at the airport.
The inspection also covered the terminal building, where the delegation identified areas requiring immediate upgrade, modernisation and further development.
The visit underscores FAAN’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with state governments and other stakeholders while advancing infrastructure development, operational efficiency, sustainability and improved passenger experience across Nigeria’ s airports.