Victor Ezeja
Group Managing Director/CEO, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Oliver Alawuba, has called for increased private-sector participation in national development projects.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAlawuba highlighted the importance of synergy between public and private institutions in building and revamping national assets, adding that such has significant economic value.
Alawuba made the call during the commissioning of the newly renovated departure section of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, done by UBA in partnership with Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
The UBA GMD praised the collaboration that made the project possible and underlined the necessity of public and private institutions working together to develop Nigeria’s resources.
He noted that modernizing the airports helps to position Nigeria as a global hub for tourism, trade and investments.
“This renovation is a testament of UBA’s belief in the transformative power of investing in national assets. By modernising our airports, we not only enhance infrastructure but also position Nigeria as a global hub for tourism, trade, and investment,” Alawuba stated.
He highlighted the broader economic impact of such initiatives undertaken through public-private partnership.
“Public-private partnerships like this demonstrate what can be achieved when we unite for a shared vision of progress and investing in infrastructure catalyses economic growth, improves travel experiences, and creates opportunities across various sectors of the economy,” he explained.
While reflecting on the power unity and collaboration, Alawuba quoted the words of American author and activist, Helen Keller thus: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” He emphasised that “the commissioning of the renovated departure section serves as a reminder of what strategic partnerships can achieve in driving national development and elevating Nigeria’s global standing.”
The commissioning ceremony held over the weekend was attended by top stakeholders in the aviation industry including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN; Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku; other Directors of FAAN, and Heads of government Agencies operating at the Airport.
While commissioning the remodeled departure section of MMIA, Keyamo applauded UBA for executing the project, describing it as “a landmark achievement” in Nigeria’s aviation sector.”
He said: This renovated departure section exemplifies the bank’s commitment to elevating aviation infrastructure, improving passenger experiences, and fostering international partnerships. It is a proud moment for the ministry and all stakeholders involved, and I thank the management of UBA for pioneering this initiative.”
The minister outlined other significant accomplishments of his ministry, such as adherence to the Cape Town Convention, the establishment of a consumer protection website, and advancement of critical infrastructure projects like Abuja Airport’s second runway and the incorporation of solar energy into airport operations.
Alawuba hailed the efforts of the aviation minister in improving the compliance with the Cape Town Convention (CTC), which increased Nigeria’s compliance score to 70.5 per cent, facilitating access to aircraft leasing and financing for Nigerian airlines and launching of a consumer protection portal at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
Other achievements of the minister he highlighted include expanding Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASA) between Nigeria and several countries, thereby allowing indigenous airlines access to more international routes and fostering collaboration with foreign airlines.
Also speaking at the event, Managing Director/Chief Executive of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, commended UBA and other stakeholders for their contributions, adding, “This project reflects FAAN’s dedication to delivering world-class aviation infrastructure. The enhanced departure section not only elevates passenger experiences but also strengthens Nigeria’s competitive position in global aviation,” she said.
She also called for more private-sector participation, emphasising that “partnerships like these are essential to transforming the aviation sector into a beacon of excellence.”
The remodeling of the departure wing of the MMIA was done through a PPP arrangement between UBA and FAAN.
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It boasts cutting-edge facilities designed to enhance efficiency and passenger comfort. “This upgrade reaffirms the Murtala Muhammed International Airport’s status as a critical gateway to Nigeria and a major hub for international travel in Africa,” a statement from UBA management added.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
