FAAN, Air Force deepen airport security partnership

L-R: Commander of the National Air Defence Corps, AVM Japhet Ekwuribe, and Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, during an engagement on Tuesday in Lagos
Lagos, May 2026 (TBL Africa) The management of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has strengthened collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force to improve airside safety nationwide.
The Managing Director of FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, hosted AVM Japhet Ekwuribe on Tuesday in Lagos.
Ekwuribe, who commands the National Air Defence Corps, visited FAAN headquarters as both institutions sought stronger operational coordination.
During the meeting, Kuku stressed the importance of sustained collaboration in strengthening security architecture across Nigeria’s airports.
She noted that airport security challenges were evolving, requiring institutions to remain proactive and coordinated.
According to her, effective responses depend on strong partnerships, intelligence sharing, and unified operational strategies.
“Security threats within airport environments are constantly changing, and our response must remain dynamic, coordinated and intelligence-driven,” she said.
Kuku said FAAN remained committed to working closely with the Air Force in strategic operational areas.
She identified airside patrol support, secure communication, and surveillance of sensitive flight operations as immediate priorities.
She also stressed the importance of proactive monitoring within and around airport perimeters.
Kuku raised concerns over land encroachment around airport facilities, describing it as a growing threat to critical aviation infrastructure.
“Collaboration among aviation stakeholders remains essential for safety, operational efficiency, and infrastructure protection across our airports,” she added.
She said FAAN highly valued its relationship with the Air Force and looked forward to deeper cooperation.
Responding, Ekwuribe praised FAAN’s leadership for its proactive approach to aviation safety and national infrastructure protection.
He described the engagement as an important opportunity to strengthen institutional ties and improve security coordination.
“Closer cooperation will significantly enhance surveillance, operational response, and the overall effectiveness of airport security systems,” he said.
Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to sustained engagement and practical frameworks for a safer aviation environment in Nigeria.

