Emmanuel OchayiThe Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced decision to relocate its corporate headquarters from Abuja back to its original base in Lagos.
This decision stems from consultations with stakeholders, including unions, and addresses concerns raised by Nigerians regarding the directive from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo.
Addressing the media, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN, explained that the move was in the best interest of the Authority and the country.
She stated: “Those affected by the initial decision to move the headquarters to Abuja have returned to Lagos due to a lack of office space. It was ill-advised to relocate without proper infrastructure in place.”
Mrs. Orah highlighted key reasons behind the decision, emphasizing the impracticality of maintaining operations in Abuja without suitable facilities. “Returning to Lagos allows us to avoid unnecessary expenditures on Duty Tour Allowance. The Minister is focused on preventing the wastage of public resources and ensuring fiscal responsibility.”
The alternative of abandoning the old FAAN building in Lagos was dismissed to avoid squandering resources on renting office space in Abuja.
Mrs. Orah clarified, “The Minister plans to engage concessionaires to construct new offices in both Lagos and Abuja. Until then, we will manage our existing building in Lagos efficiently.”
Contrary to concerns, FAAN clarified that its operations in Abuja remain unaffected, with full operational offices continuing to function.
Orah assured the public, stating, “The decision only pertains to the technical designation of the ‘corporate headquarters’ and doesn’t impact our operations in either city.”
Looking ahead, the Minister aims to finalize the permanent headquarters once suitable corporate buildings are constructed in both Lagos and Abuja. Mrs. Orah concluded, “FAAN remains committed to acting in the best interest of the public and the country. The Minister’s decisions prioritize efficiency and fiscal responsibility over ethnic or sectional sentiments.”
The move signifies FAAN’s strategic efforts to enhance operational efficiency, allocate resources judiciously, and prioritize the interests of the public.
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