Nigeria’s aviation security architecture is set for a major boost as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Air Force move to deepen collaboration in safeguarding the nation’s airports.

FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, made this clear during a high-level engagement with the Commander of the National Air Defence Corps, Air Vice Marshal Japhet Ekwuribe, in Lagos, where both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to tighter operational synergy.

At the heart of the renewed partnership is a shared determination to stay ahead of evolving security threats within airport environments.

Kuku stressed that modern aviation security demands more than isolated efforts, highlighting the need for intelligence sharing, coordinated strategies, and sustained inter-agency cooperation.

“We are dealing with dynamic security challenges that require strong partnerships and proactive coordination,” she said, noting that FAAN remains committed to working closely with the Air Force on airside patrols, surveillance, and sensitive flight operations.

She also raised concern over increasing cases of land encroachment around airport perimeters, describing it as a critical risk to aviation infrastructure that requires urgent and collective action.

In response, Air Vice Marshal Ekwuribe commended FAAN’s leadership for its forward-thinking approach, describing the collaboration as a strategic step toward strengthening surveillance and rapid response capabilities across Nigeria’s airports.

“This engagement provides an opportunity to reinforce institutional ties and improve operational effectiveness in tackling shared security priorities,” he said.

Both parties agreed to develop practical frameworks that will enhance coordination, improve monitoring systems, and ensure swift responses to potential threats.

The renewed alliance signals a proactive shift in Nigeria’s aviation security posture, one that prioritizes collaboration, vigilance, and resilience in protecting critical national assets.

Nigeria has renewed its call for improved air connectivity and efficiency across Africa, as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, urged stakeholders to unlock the continent’s vast aviation potential.

Delivering a goodwill message at the IATA Focus Africa Conference in Addis Ababa, Keyamo emphasised the need for coordinated action to address longstanding challenges limiting growth in Africa’s aviation sector.

He highlighted the importance of strengthening safety oversight, improving infrastructure and adopting modern technologies to enhance operational performance across the industry.

The Minister also underscored the need to boost intra-African connectivity, describing it as a key driver of trade and economic integration under frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.

He called for harmonised policies and the removal of barriers restricting seamless air travel within the continent.

“Africa’s aviation future depends on our ability to work together and turn potential into performance,” Keyamo said.

The conference, convened by the International Air Transport Association, serves as a strategic platform for governments and industry leaders to develop actionable solutions for the sector.

Keyamo reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to global standards, partnerships and reforms that will position the country—and Africa—as competitive players in the global aviation market.

He also commended host nation Ethiopia and sponsors, including Ethiopian Airlines, for supporting initiatives aimed at advancing aviation development on the continent.

Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, has received another major academic honour, as Abia State University conferred on him an Honorary Doctorate in Public Administration, bringing his total honorary degrees to four.

The recognition formed part of the university’s 32nd Convocation Ceremony, which brought together prominent academics, policymakers, and business leaders in Abia State.

University leadership at the event included Vice Chancellor Prof. Ndukwe J. Okeudo, Pro-Chancellor Dr. Agwu U. Agwu, and Registrar Dr. Acho Elendu, who all witnessed the conferment ceremony alongside guests and members of Air Peace management.

In his remarks, Dr. Onyema highlighted the critical role of education in national survival and development, calling for stronger collaboration between government and the private sector in funding and supporting education.

He stressed that education cannot be left to government alone, noting that private sector participation is essential for sustainable national progress.

“One thing is certain, I believe in education. Without education, the country is dead,” Onyema said. “Whatever we must do to encourage education, the government alone cannot fund it.”

He also expressed gratitude to Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for nominating him for the honour, describing the recognition as a reminder of his ongoing responsibility to contribute to society.

Over the years, Onyema has built a reputation not only as a leading figure in Africa’s aviation industry but also as a philanthropist deeply involved in humanitarian support, education initiatives, and youth development programmes.

His latest honour reflects growing recognition of his efforts to combine enterprise with social impact, reinforcing his position as one of Nigeria’s most visible private sector advocates for education and nation-building.