The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has officially confirmed the relocation of its corporate headquarters from Abuja to Lagos. The directive, issued by Nigeria's Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has sparked discussions on the implications and reasoning behind this strategic move.
FAAN's Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, circulated an internal memo addressing the directive. The memo, dated Thursday, January 18, 2024, emphasized that the move was a result of Minister Keyamo's explicit instructions. It called for an examination of the implications of relocating the agency's headquarters from Abuja to Lagos.
The ensuing press release, issued by FAAN's Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, offered insights into the decision-making process. According to the statement, the initial relocation of FAAN's headquarters to Abuja was deemed "ill-advised" due to the absence of adequate office space for all staff members in the capital city.
Orah clarified that those initially affected by the relocation to Abuja had already returned to Lagos, given the impracticality of sustaining operations in the absence of suitable office space. The agency asserted that this move would curtail the wastage of public resources and prevent the deterioration of its abandoned Lagos building.
Keyamo's directive aligns with the government's commitment to fiscal responsibility. The statement highlighted the potential financial burden of paying Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) to employees working out of station in Abuja, as their official posting remained in Lagos.
The press release revealed plans to engage concessionaires for the construction of modern offices in both Lagos and Abuja. Until completion, FAAN will continue managing its existing facility in Lagos. Contrary to misconceptions, operations in Abuja remain unaffected, and the agency retains full operational offices in both cities.
The Minister's commitment to decisions in the best interest of the country was underscored, emphasizing the long-term vision of determining the permanent headquarters based on the evolving needs of the Authority.
As debates ensue about the practicality and foresight of this move, FAAN reassures the public of its dedication to national interests and fiscal prudence. Minister Keyamo's determination to prioritize public funds over sectional sentiments remains a focal point in this bold administrative decision
