TEAMING VISITORS on business and tourism to a country on air travel, the first assessment and impression of their destination begin at the point of entry — the airports. Obviously for this reason, Nigeria’s immediate past and present governments, embarked on airports remodeling and upgrading to enhance safety, security and efficient management.
Nigerians and foreigners using most of the country’s airports in the past have not hidden their disappointment on the state of airports in the country. Structures and facilities at the airports were obsolete. Terminals were shabby and overcrowded with malfunctioning air-conditioners, luggage conveyors and toilets. These were in the past.
Presently, Nigeria’s new look airports, breathe air of relief. At the 8th Nigeria Aviation Award, NIGAV, Monday, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, NAIA, has been voted Most Improved International Airport in the country for the year 2017. Sani Mahmud, manager of the airport was voted Airport Manager of the Year.
In-and-out of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, NAIA, wear new looks, along with enhanced operational efficiency and international best practices in airport facilities, hygiene and operations. November 2017, Abuja International Airport got aerodrome certification from Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, first time since inception.
The airport management acknowledged the award and said it will spur to greater hard work, productivity and efficiency. Sani Mahmud who received the award on behalf of management said: “I am grateful for this award and I promise to do more to achieve more.”
