
In a press release issued on Thursday, January 18, 2024, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) officially confirmed the directive from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, to relocate FAAN’s corporate headquarters from Abuja back to its original base in Lagos. The decision comes after extensive consultations with stakeholders, including union representatives, by the new Management of FAAN.
The key reasons behind the relocation were outlined by FAAN in the press release:
- Return of Personnel to Lagos: Those affected by the initial decision to move the headquarters to Abuja have since returned to Lagos due to the lack of office space in Abuja. The move back to Lagos was deemed necessary as relocating to Abuja without sufficient FAAN buildings in the capital proved impractical.
- Avoidance of DTA Expenses: With the personnel officially posted to Abuja, the Authority would be obligated to pay Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) due to their working “OUT OF STATION.” To curb unnecessary expenses, the Minister decided to end this practice and prevent undue strain on public resources.
- Utilization of Existing Infrastructure: Rather than letting the old FAAN building in Lagos go to waste, the Minister and stakeholders opted to save public funds by using the available space in Lagos for the time being, given that a significant portion of FAAN’s activities, specifically passenger volume, occurs in Lagos.
- Concessionaire Plans for New Offices: The Minister revealed plans to engage concessionaires to construct modern offices for FAAN in both Lagos and Abuja. Until these developments materialize, the Authority will continue managing its existing building in Lagos, capable of accommodating all Directors and senior officials.
- Unaffected Operational Offices in Abuja: FAAN clarified that its operational offices in Abuja remain fully functional, and there has been no reduction in activities. The decision to relocate the corporate headquarters has no bearing on the day-to-day operations in either city.
- Future Decision on Permanent Headquarters: FAAN emphasized that a final decision on the permanent headquarters location will be made in the future, considering the construction of suitable corporate buildings in both Lagos and Abuja.
- Commitment to Public Interest: The Authority assured the public of its dedication to acting in the best interest of the country, emphasizing the Minister’s commitment to decisions that safeguard public funds without succumbing to ethnic or sectional sentiments.
The press release concluded by expressing gratitude and reinforcing the commitment to responsible decision-making in the interest of the nation.