Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has defended the N580 billion allocated for the rehabilitation of airport runways across the country. In an interview with TVC on Thursday, Kuku clarified that the budget covers not only the repair of 17 runways but also critical infrastructure such as perimeter roads and fencing.
The FAAN MD highlighted the deteriorating state of many runways, stressing that they have surpassed their operational lifespan, making urgent reconstruction necessary. Kuku also addressed public concerns regarding the cost, urging critics to consider the complexities involved in airport infrastructure projects.
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Kuku further elaborated on the second runway project at Abuja’s international airport, a scheme initiated by previous administrations. She acknowledged concerns raised by Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo about rising costs, as changes to the project scope and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates have led to significant cost variations.
On January 23, Keyamo revealed that contractors involved in the Abuja second runway project were now requesting N532 billion, a substantial increase from the initial N90 billion budget. The Minister stated that the government’s position on the request remains firm, calling the proposed variation unacceptable.
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