March 12, (THEWILL)- With some investments in the right areas, the Federal Government believes that the country can put a stop to the N3.6 trillion worth of perishable goods lost annually.
Also, the Nigerian economy and revenue drive are expected to be further boosted when proper investments are made into the exportation of food and other perishables via air transportation.
Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, gave the hints on Monday while speaking to reporters after the commissioning of the newly refurbished Bola Tinubu International Airport, Minna.
According to her, FAAN is excited that President Tinubu has promised to complete the cargo and international terminals within a short period of time.
The MD/CE, who represented the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, at the occasion, thanked Niger State Governor, Umar Mohammed Bago, for speedily completing the project, adding that it would surely contribute to the improvement of the state’s gross domestic product.
“The overhauling of the runway and construction of the passenger terminal in a very short timeline was a daunting task that required much expense and synergy between all parties involved. I am indeed grateful that this project will forever be seen as a symbol of our nation’s dedication to advancing infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and fostering economic growth. We believe that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna, will serve as a gateway to the world, facilitating trade, tourism, and collaboration on a global scale.
“At FAAN, one of our key aspirations is to help grow Nigeria’s economy through the facilitation of exports. We believe that with some investments in the right areas, we can put a huge dent in the N3.6 trillion worth of perishable goods lost annually. Therefore, we are excited that His Excellency has promised to complete the Cargo and International Terminals within a short time. We encourage him to do so as we cannot wait to assist the ambitions of the state to be the biggest food producer and food exporter in the country,” she said.
Mrs. Kuku said renaming the Minna International Airport after President Tinubu was historic and befitting, given the policy direction and implementations by the current administration.
“This occasion not only pays tribute to a visionary leader but also signifies a new chapter in the development of our aviation industry. President Tinubu’s commitment to progress, innovation, and excellence is evident in all his policies and programmes and at FAAN, we are happy to have partnered with the equally visionary leadership of the Niger State Government, ably led by Governor Bago, on this project. His commitment, drive and close monitoring contributed immensely to seeing this project delivered in record time and for this, we are indeed thankful,” she said.
She also thanked all those who contributed to the success of the project, from the consultants to the FAAN engineers, construction workers, government officials and all FAAN staff involved.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
