FAAN, Cross River seek collaboration on Calabar Airport growth

The Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has emphasised the importance of strengthening collaboration between FAAN and the Cross River State Government towards the sustainable development of Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, and the broader aviation sector.

Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who was accompanied by FAAN Managing Director/CE, Olubunmi Kuku, during a visit to Governor Bassey Edet Otu at the Government House in Calabar before inspecting the airport.

Appreciating the visit, Governor Bassey Edet Otu presented the state government’s aviation master plan and highlighted key areas of potential collaboration, particularly the ongoing upgrade of the international wing of Margaret Ekpo International Airport.

According to the Governor, the upgrade is aimed at positioning the airport to meet the expected demands associated with the forthcoming 6th African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network Investment Conference (AfSNET 2026), which Cross River State is scheduled to host.

As part of his support for airport operations, Governor Otu presented a Ford Ranger pickup vehicle to the management team of Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, to strengthen operational activities and enhance service delivery.

The FAAN Governing Board and management inspected the ongoing runway upgrade project as well as the newly installed 500KVA solar power system, reflecting ongoing efforts towards the adoption of sustainable and green energy solutions at the airport.

The inspection also covered the terminal building, where the delegation identified areas requiring immediate upgrade, modernisation and further development.

The visit underscores FAAN’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with state governments and other stakeholders while advancing infrastructure development, operational efficiency, sustainability and improved passenger experience across Nigeria’s airports.