Airport Reporters

  ' Tinubu's Renew Hope Agenda impacting  aviation transformation ' As the Federal Government consolidates gains of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renew Hope Agenda in  redefining the country's  economic trajectory, its airports, long seen as mere transit points, are being reimagined as gateways of growth and engines of economic value. One of the focal agencies : the  Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), is on a journey to  modernize  terminals and  push for operational efficiency. In this interview,  with KELVIN OSA OKUNBOR, its  Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Henry Agbebire, offers  perspective on  what has changed, in Nigeria’s place in the global aviation ecosystem . .. Agbebire    How has the Renewed Hope Agenda reshaped FAAN’s operational priorities? The Renewed Hope Agenda has given FAAN a clear national mandate. To reposition our airports as engines of economic growth, not ...

ATSSSAN vows to deal with members who indulges in illicit substance   The President of Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Comrade John Ogala Ogbe, has assured the management of the Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO), that ATSSSAN will not spare any member who indulges in illicit substances at the airport.  Speaking while leading the new executives of ATSSSAN on a courtesy visit to the management of SAHCO, Comrade Ogbe  promise to work with other unions towards concretely addressing the menace. The  ATSSSAN boss advised the SAHCO management to commence the implementation of the staff long service award as stipulated in the conditions of service. Comrade Ogbe called on the management to endeavour to prioritise women in the outstation trainings whenever opportunities present themselves. The ATSSSAN president thanked the SAHCO boss for her warm reception reiterating, that one of the major hallmarks of ATSSSAN was genuine coll...

AVIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTION HOLDS SOON  ......AS ORGANISERS LAUD KEYAMO, FAAN, OTHERS FOR MASSIVE SUPPORT  The Nigeria Aviation Hall of Fame has announced that preparations are at advanced stages for the induction of new entrants into its prestigious Hall of Fame, following the conclusion of final screening of nominees. Organisers of the event, Mr Wole Shadare and Mr Gboyega Adeoye, confirmed that finishing touches are currently being put to all arrangements preceding the landmark ceremony, which will hold soon. Speaking on the support received so far, Shadare expressed profound appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, for his massive and unwavering support towards the success of the event. “We are putting finishing touches to what promises to be a defining moment for Nigeria’s aviation history. This would not have been possible without the Honourable Minister, Mr Festus Keyamo, whose commitment to recognising ex...

 ‎ ‎United Nigeria Airlines passengers to win Samsung Galaxy phones, free tickets June 1 ‎ ‎ Passengers flying United Nigeria Airlines on the Lagos–Abuja–Lagos route on Monday , June 1, stand a chance of winning new Samsung phones, free tickets and other gifts, the airline has said. ‎ ‎The airline has announced a partnership with Samsung as part of the "Awesome Row" plan where passengers on the route will get access to the new Samsung Galaxy A57 during the flight, and winners that emerge will get new devices.  ‎ ‎Speaking on the initiative, the Chief Commercial Officer for the airline, Dayo Olawuyi, said the partnership is about creating value that passengers feel from the moment they check in. "We  partnered with Samsung because of our shared values of excellence and most importantly, to reward our loyal  passengers with a live device experience. Passengers who fly with us on June 1, either from Lagos to Abuja or from Abuja to Lagos in the morning will stand a chanc...

 How the Renewed Hope Agenda is helping FAAN to transform, Henry Agbebire, Director of Public Affairs   At a time when Nigeria is redefining its economic trajectory and global relevance, its airports, long seen as mere transit points, are being reimagined as gateways of growth, symbols of national identity, and engines of economic value. At the center of this shift is the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), under the leadership of Mrs.Olubunmi Kuku, where a quiet but deliberate transformation is unfolding, one that goes beyond infrastructure to embrace people, systems, culture, and global standards. From modernised terminals and renewed operational efficiency to a bold reorientation of staff mindset and service philosophy, FAAN is not just upgrading facilities; it is rewriting the story of Nigeria’s aviation experience. With over 3,000 personnel trained and a strong pivot toward professionalism, accountability, and innovation, the Authority said it is laying the foun...

 SUSPECTED DRUG BARON ABANDONS 498KG CANNABIS IN EDO SHRINE  A suspected drug baron has reportedly abandoned four hundred and ninety-eight kilograms (498kg) of dried weeds that tested positive for skunk cannabis inside a shrine in Edo State..  The Edo State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Commander of Narcotics Mitchell Ofoyeju, PhD, said that narcotic agents recovered the illicit drugs abandoned by some members of the drug syndicate operating in the Owan East Local Government Area. The seizure was made while acting on a credible intelligence report that led to a coordinated raid at Igwe Community on 22 May 2026. The operation led to the recovery of 59 bags of skunk cannabis weighing 489 kilograms, as well as 9 kilograms of cannabis seeds.  The exhibits were found abandoned by the prime suspect, a notorious drug baron known as Asrenre, who is at large inside a shrine. Although there was resistance from some youth members of the communit...

 Air Peace Gets a Heroic Welcome into the Caribbean. The Government of Barbados, with the support of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), formally welcomed Air Peace at a high-level forum and media launch held at the Indigo Hotel in Barbados, following the airline’s inaugural commercial flight from Lagos to Barbados on May 24, 2026. The forum brought together senior government officials, diplomatic representatives, tourism executives, airline delegates, members of the media and key stakeholders, reflecting growing institutional support for enhanced connectivity between Africa and the Caribbean. Among the dignitaries in attendance were The Hon. Ian Gooding-Edghill, Minister of Tourism and International Transport; Senator The Hon. Shane Archer, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Youth and Culture; Ambassador David Commissiong, Ambassador to CARICOM; Her Excellency Juliet Sutherland-Bynoe, High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ghana and Liberia; Xiom...

 WIFE OF SUSPECTED DRUG TRAFFICKER SUBMITS FAKE DEATH AFFIDAVIT IN COURT The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Edo State Command, has re-arrested and brought before the Federal High Court in Benin City a suspected drug trafficker, Ibrahim Yusuf Lawal, 50 years old, who had earlier jumped bail and whose wife fraudulently submitted an affidavit claiming he had died while they were living together at Iruvucheba, Okene, Kogi State. NDLEA Edo State commander, Commander of Narcotics Mitchell Ofoyeju PhD, disclosed that Lawal was originally arrested on February 5, 2022, at Ugbekun Junction, Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State, while transporting various quantities of psychotropic substances. He was found in possession of 0.257kg of Lexotan, 1kg of Diazepam, and 5.4kg of Phenobarbital, all concealed in a white Toyota bus with registration number Abuja BWR401XC. Ibrahim was subsequently charged on a three-count charge of unlawful transportation of controlled substanc...

 AIR PEACE EXPANDS FLEET WITH BOEING 737-800 ACQUISITION As part of its strategic drive to meet rising passenger demand across domestic and regional markets, West and Central Africa’s largest airline, Air Peace, has taken delivery of another Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft, further strengthening its operational capacity and network expansion efforts. The newly acquired aircraft, with registration number 5N-CGD, touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Sunday, May 24, 2026, marking another significant milestone in the airline’s continuous fleet growth and modernization programme. Configured with 189 Economy Class seats, the Boeing 737-800 NG is designed to deliver enhanced passenger comfort, operational efficiency, and scheduling flexibility across both domestic and regional routes. The aircraft features a spacious cabin layout, generous overhead storage, advanced avionics, modern safety systems, and fuel-efficient engines, making it one of the w...

 Air Peace Strengthens Africa-Caribbean Connectivity with Direct Barbados Service In a major step toward advancing air connectivity between Africa and the Caribbean, West and Central Africa’s largest carrier, Air Peace, has successfully operated its first scheduled commercial flight from Lagos to Barbados, marking the launch of a direct air service designed to simplify travel between both regions. The historic flight was operated on the carrier's luxurious Boeing 777 aircraft on 24 May 2026,  and it departed Lagos with over 284 passengers on board, underscoring the growing demand for more seamless travel options between Nigeria and the Caribbean. Among the dignitaries and notable personalities on the flight were Air Peace Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Nowel Ngala; the High Commissioner of Barbados to Nigeria, Ghana and Liberia, Juliette Bynoe-Sutherland; renowned Nigerian actress, Temitope Olowoniyan; alongside other airline delegates and passengers. Beyond the launch of a new...

  FAAN ENGAGES INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES ASSOCIATION TO STRENGTHEN PROTOCOL SERVICES .....IMPROVE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE As part of efforts to strengthen collaboration and improve service delivery, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Henry Agbebire, on Thursday, 21 May 2026, met with members of the International Airlines Association of Nigeria (IAAN) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. The meeting was a lively interactive session that provided both parties with the opportunity to discuss issues of mutual benefit. At the engagement, Mr. Agbebire stated that the session was aimed at fostering a stronger working relationship between the Department of Protocol and Passages, and airline operators, while also providing an opportunity to listen to some of the challenges of the airlines. In response, the airline representatives raised a number of operational concerns, including inadequate signage related to the ongoing landside construction works, insuf...

Air Peace partners Dutch Aviation Trainers to strengthen crew efficiency  West Africa’s largest airline, Air Peace, has reinforced its commitment to operational excellence and global best practices through a strategic engagement with leading aviation training organisation, Dutch Aviation Trainers (DAT). The meeting, which took place today, 21st May, 2026, at the Air Peace Corporate Headquarters in Lagos, brought together the leadership of both organisations to discuss pilot training collaborations, particularly for the Boeing 737 NG fleet. DAT is currently responsible for the training of Air Peace pilots on the Embraer E1 and E2 aircraft types, further deepening an existing relationship focused on enhancing technical expertise and flight operations standards. The Dutch Aviation Trainers team, renowned globally as a leading Aviation Training Organisation (ATO) specialising in Boeing and Embraer aircraft training, offers comprehensive type-rating programmes and various courses design...

  Malaysia International Halal Showcase Unveiled ......Targets strong participation from Nigeria, West Africa The National Trade Promotion Agency of Malaysia, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), has  unveiled the 22nd edition of the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS 2026). It is the  world’s largest Halal trade event, positioning it as a leading global gateway for businesses seeking to access opportunities within the rapidly expanding $3.5 trillion Halal economy.  MIHAS 2026 soft launch took place on April 28, 2026, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Held under the theme “Shaping Trust, Driving Resilience”, MIHAS 2026, responds to rising demand for trusted, transparent, and efficient trade ecosystems amid ongoing global supply chain shifts, market fragmentation, and cost pressures. The event, recognised as the most established Halal trade platform, is designed to connect international businesses, and verified Halal products and services supp...

  FAAN engages host communities on safety , security , other issues on MMIA The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has strengthened  collaboration with host communities surrounding the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, through sustained engagement with traditional rulers and community stakeholders. At a stakeholders’ meeting held with the traditional leaders of MMIA host communities, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Henry Agbebire, represented the Managing Director/Chief Executive of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, and delivered the MD’s address. The meeting brought together revered traditional rulers including; His Royal Majesty, Oba Isa Abiodun Shekoni, Osolo of Isolo Kingdom; His Royal Majesty, Oba Kuti Shakirudeen Adeshina, Elewu of Ewu Kingdom; His Royal Majesty, Oba Babatunde Akanbi Nasiru Lawal Ogunronbi, Shasha of Shasha Kingdom; His Royal Majesty, Oba Morufu Adisa Ojoola, Ejigbo of Ejigbo Kingdom; Oba Akeeb Adebowale ...

  FAAN deploys preventive  measures  at airports for Ebola Virus Disease The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said it has put in place  robust preventive measures at  international airports in  the country as response to the recent Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) situation in parts of Central Africa. The authority according to its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Henry Agbebire said it is in  close collaboration with Port Health Services, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and other relevant agencies, to  intensify  surveillance and monitoring of passengers, particularly those arriving from high-risk regions. He said passengers are being screened for symptoms associated with Ebola, and any suspected case will be promptly isolated and subjected to secondary health checks in line with established national and international health protocols. Additionally,  he said FAAN has strengthened ...

Keyamo showcases Nigeria's aviation financing reforms at London meeting     Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to strengthening aviation financing, regulatory reforms and compliance with the Cape Town Convention (CTC) while addressing global stakeholders at the Aviation Working Group (AWG) General Meeting in London. Speaking before an audience of international financiers, aircraft lessors, legal experts and aviation stakeholders gathered in the imperial city of London, the Minister described Nigeria’s recent aviation reforms as a strategic effort aimed at positioning the country as a reliable and competitive destination for aircraft financing and leasing transactions. Delivering his speech at the high-level meeting, the Minister expressed appreciation to the Aviation Working Group for its consistent support and collaboration with Nigeria, particularly acknowledging the role of Mr. Jeffrey Wool and...

  SAHCO MD Pays Courtesy Visit to BASL .....Reaffirms Commitment to Operational Efficiency, Safety, Passenger Experience ,  Collaboration The Managing Director of Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO), Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, alongside members of the company’s executive management team, paid a courtesy visit to Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), Lagos, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional collaboration and deepen operational synergy within Nigeria’s aviation sector. The meeting according to a statement signed by BASL ,  brought together key officials from both organizations, provided an opportunity for extensive discussions on operational efficiency, safety management, infrastructure expansion, passenger experience, technological innovation, and stakeholder collaboration across airport operations. Welcoming the SAHCO delegation, the Ag. Chief Operating Officer/Head of Aeronau...

  ONSA, Federal agencies back framework for NSIB  The Federal Government’s framework for repositioning the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) as an independent multimodal accident investigation agency  received strong backing from key stakeholders across Nigeria’s aviation, maritime, rail, road transportation, and security sectors in Abuja on Thursday, with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) leading calls for stronger coordination between transportation safety oversight and national security response mechanisms. The high-level stakeholder engagement, convened at the Joint Intelligence Board Hall of the ONSA, brought together senior government officials, transport regulators, emergency response agencies, and security institutions to chart the way forward for the implementation of the new reporting structure approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in March 2026.  Under the new arrangement, the NSIB will now report directly to the Presidency thr...

 EDO NDLEA DESTROYS TWO CANNABIS FARMS OF 1,388.42 KG ....ARRESTS FOUR SUSPECTS Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Edo State Command, in a sustained offensive against drug trafficking and abuse, have destroyed two cannabis plantations with a yield of 1,388.42kg and the arrest of four suspected drug traffickers in the past one week.  The Commander of Narcotics, Mitchell Ofoyeju, PhD, who is the NDLEA Edo State commander, disclosed this on Monday, May 18, 2026, detailing the command’s achievements across the state. According to Commander Mitchell, acting on credible intelligence, NDLEA personnel raided the Ago Forest in the Orhionmwon Local Government Area of the state, where two large cannabis farms were located.  The farms, measuring 0.362021 hectares and 0.229346 hectares, respectively, and totalling 0.555367 hectares, were completely destroyed.  The estimated yield of the illicit farm was put at 1,388.4175 kilograms. No arrests were mad...

 BEYOND RENOVATION: THE MAKING OF A WORLD-CLASS MMIA By Henry Agbebire  The ongoing large-scale upgrade of West Africa’s busiest airport, the Murtala Murtala International Airport (MMIA), sets Nigeria on a new aviation path, a new phase of transformation that aligns Nigeria with the global shift toward modern, digitally enabled, passenger-centric aviation hubs. For decades, the Murtala Muhammed International Airport has been far more than an airport. Today, it is not just transitioning to a renovated facility, but a transformed gateway that signals Nigeria’s entry into a new era of world-class aviation. This is the story of transformation beyond surface improvements. It is a deliberate re-engineering of infrastructure, passenger experience, and national aviation identity. What is happening at MMIA goes far beyond renovation. It is a national statement. It is Nigeria announcing to the world that its aviation future will no longer be defined by ageing infrastructure, but by smar...