By GABRIEL AGBEJA

The Federal Government on Thursday deployed 10 electric shuttle buses and 20 electric sedans at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja to boost operational efficiency.

Mr Abdullahi Ganduje, the Board Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), said during the inaugural ceremony, that the move marked an important milestone in FAAN’s ongoing efforts to improve service delivery.

He further said that the event revealed effort being made towards modernising airport operations and aligning Nigeria’s aviation sector with global best practices.

“It is my pleasure to be part of this momentous occasion marking the official deployment of electric vehicles at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

“As part of this deployment, FAAN is introducing 10 electric shuttle buses and 20 electric saloon vehicles into airport operations.

“These vehicles will support airside and land side logistics, staff movement, and services, strengthening passenger coordination and efficiency across the airport,” he said.

According to him, electric vehicles offer clear operational and environmental benefits. They are cleaner, quieter and more energy-efficient, significantly reducing carbon emissions and helping FAAN minimise its ecological footprint.

The chairman added that using electrical vehicles would contribute to healthier airport environments and a more comfortable work and travel experience.

“This initiative directly supports global sustainability targets, including International Civil Aviation Organisation’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“By embracing electric mobility, FAAN is positioning Nigerian airports to remain competitive, responsible and future-ready.

The chairman commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration’s strong support for aviation sector reforms.

“The progress we are witnessing today reflects a clear policy direction that prioritises efficiency, sustainability, and institutional renewal,” he said.

He affirmed that the FAAN board remained committed to ensuring the programme would be effectively utilised, adequately maintained, and gradually expanded to other airports in the country.

Ganduje, who said the deployment at NAIA, would not be an end, maintaining that it would be a foundation for a more modern and resilient airport logistics system.

Speaking, FAAN Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, said FAAN had secured approval to deploy 100 Electric Vehicles (EVs) in the spirit of partnership and innovation.

She said the EVs would operate as airport shuttles at both Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, and NAIA.

According to her, the launch of the 10 state-of-the-art electric shuttle buses in NAIA, as first phase, is a monumental step towards greening operations and reducing carbon footprint at the nation’s airports.

“They (EVs) represent more than just transport; they symbolise cleaner air, quieter terminals, and a commitment to pioneering sustainable infrastructure in Nigerian aviation.

“This partnership is a testament to what is possible when the public and private sectors align with a shared vision.

“FAAN has always prioritised passenger comfort, safety, and seamless airport experience, and today’s official launch of our electric shuttle buses and cabs is a further, powerful demonstration of that commitment to service towards sustainable future.”

According to her, the authority has radically improving the welfare and capacity of dedicated staff, and elevating the standard of service for every customer who passes through the airport.

“We confronted this task with clear eyes, acknowledging the very real challenges of ageing and obsolete facilities.

“But with the unwavering support of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and our dynamic Honourable Minister of Aviation, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, we have truly caught the wind in our sails.

“We are navigating boldly and heading firmly in the right direction. A cornerstone of our strategy has been opening FAAN to innovative partnerships with the private sector. This collaborative approach has already yielded significant strides,” he said.

She said the FAAN management had determined a network of clean energy solutions across all nation`s airports in the future, from solar power to comprehensive EV infrastructure, making FAAN a leader in eco-friendly aviation management in Africa.

Kuku added that the FAAN`s “Go-Cashless Initiative” had been automating payments across all channels, boosting revenue collection efficiency, and significantly reducing revenue leakage.

She said the initiative was as about transparency, accountability, and modernising the passenger experience from the first touchpoint. (NAN)

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