FAAN Managing Director highlights benefits of AMPAP programme

 

FAAN Managing Director highlights benefits of AMPAP programme 

The Managing Dirgector of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku has highlighted the benefits of the Professional Airport Managers Programme (AMPAP), organized by the Airports Council International (ACI) saying the exercise has been worth its while.

At the AMPAP Alumni Meet and Greet in Lagos, Mrs Kuku  expressed  profound appreciation for the enlightening experience gained through the program.

She emphasized that the value extended beyond the curriculum, highlighting the crucial opportunity to build camaraderie, exchange perspectives, and understand diverse approaches to problem-solving among her colleagues. 

Mrs. Kuku noted that the program’s effectiveness stemmed from its practical approach, utilizing real-life case studies to enhance understanding and application in current professional roles. She particularly praised the interactive structure, which encouraged active participation and emphasized the application of learned concepts through presentations. 

She clarified that the presentations were not about finding definitive answers, but rather about demonstrating the ability to effectively apply and communicate acquired knowledge for practical implementation.

Mrs. Kuku acknowledged the significant commitment required for the program, which includes foundational and elective courses, and urged participants to remain dedicated to its completion. 

She stressed the importance of scheduling and prioritizing the program to ensure its successful conclusion and the attainment of a globally recognized qualification. She conveyed her gratitude for the opportunity to return to a classroom environment, expressing her enjoyment of the learning experience despite a brief absence due to unavoidable obligations. 

Mrs. Kuku encouraged attendees to fully engage in the networking session, expressing her eagerness to continue fostering connections and collaborating on innovative solutions for airport management in a relaxed and conducive environment.

Also speaking, Board Member AMPAP  IAP, representing Africa, Mrs Oluwashola  Olaitan Awe said Nigeria's aviation sector has reaffirmed its dedication to professional excellence through its ongoing commitment to the Airport Management Professional Accreditation Programme (AMPAP). 

Speaking at the recent AMPAP Alumni Meet and Greet in Lagos, Board Member representing Africa in the AMPAP IAP Alumni Group, Oluwasola Olaitan Awe, showcased Nigeria’s remarkable journey in advancing airport management expertise.

She commended the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for its steadfast investment in professional development. 

Notably, FAAN has hosted the AMPAP program three times, a commitment to its dedication to building a skilled workforce capable of navigating the evolving aviation landscape.

Giving a brief history, she said, FAAN's involvement with AMPAP began in 2008, but the program initially faced logistical challenges and shifting priorities. 

However, perseverance paid off according to her, when three determined individuals, Emmanuel Chidera, Kabir Yusuf Mohammed, and Vivian Meyanga successfully completed the program in 2014. 

Their resilience, Awe noted, exemplifies the dedication required to achieve lasting success.

Since then, FAAN has emerged as a leading contributor to Nigeria’s growing pool of International Airport Professionals (IAPs). 

In her speech, out of Nigeria's 46 certified IAPs, 41 are FAAN staff, solidifying the country’s status as a leader in airport management across Africa. 

"This is a remarkable achievement, placing Nigeria at the forefront of airport management expertise in Africa".

Nigeria now ranks alongside South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania as key players in this field, with 159 IAPs collectively across 23 African nations.

Awe reiterated that the aviation industry must remain proactive in addressing future challenges, particularly with artificial intelligence rapidly reshaping global industries. 

Citing the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, the AMPAP Alumni board member warned that nearly 40 per cent  of today’s skills risk becoming obsolete, stressing that continuous learning and strategic leadership are crucial for staying ahead.

In this regard, Awe praised FAAN’s senior management for enrolling in the AMPAP program, demonstrating a commitment to fostering leadership from within. 

The current cohort, she noted, has already completed the program’s introductory gateway course and is well-positioned to excel.

Graduates will receive the prestigious AMPAP diploma, IAP pins, and membership in the IAP Alumni Group, a network that provides invaluable opportunities for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and career advancement. 

Awe pointed out the growing influence of IAP alumni, noting that several graduates have progressed to CEO roles, including notable figures such as Mike Nakornkhet (CEO of San Francisco International Airport), Richard Aisuebeogun, Kabir Mohammed, and Capt. Rabiu Yadudu.

The AMPAP IAP Alumni board representative encouraged participants to embrace lifelong learning and leadership, stressing that the rapid pace of change demands adaptability. 

"Let us continue to build a future where Nigerian and African airports stand as beacons of excellence, safety, and innovation," she urged.

The next AMPAP IAP graduation is set to take place in September 2025 during the ICAO Assembly in Montreal, marking another milestone in Nigeria’s growing influence in global aviation leadership.

"There is no better time than now to invest in our future".