The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has inaugurated the Wildlife Hazard Control Equipment provided by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to address the problem of bird strikes at airports throughout the country.
She stated that the equipment would also contribute to enhancing safety within the aviation industry during the commissioning of the ICAO Wildlife Hazard Control Equipment at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA) in Lagos today.
Represented by Capt. Abdulllahi Mohmood, the Director of Airport Operations, Kuku highlighted FAAN’s decision to upgrade its equipment in response to the threat wildlife poses to air safety, based on the observed dangers of bird strikes over the years.
Kuku expressed, “We have now received the equipment from ICAO, and we will commission it today. After the commissioning, we will distribute it to various airports across the country, where it will be effectively utilized to mitigate daily wildlife hazards.”
She also addressed recent incidents of bird strikes, acknowledging their potential for causing significant damage to aircraft engines and disrupting airline operations, leading to flight delays and cancellations.
Although she did not disclose the cost of the equipment, Kuku revealed that millions of Naira were expended on the procurement.
Furthermore, she thanked the airline operators for their patience and cooperation, emphasizing their continued support and collaboration with the organization despite the challenges they encounter.
During the vote of thanks, Mrs. Nanlo Christopher, the General Manager of Environmental Services, expressed gratitude to the Managing Director of FAAN, the Director of Airport Operations, and the management team for ensuring the safe arrival of the equipment. She also appreciated their support, cooperation, and commitment to minimizing bird strikes.
Christopher stressed the significance of addressing bird strikes, noting the criticisms from airline operators due to the frequency of such incidents, and expressed relief that the equipment had been safely delivered.
She also urged for an enhanced procurement process to prevent similar breaches in the future and thanked the airline operators for their understanding and cooperation, highlighting their decision not to resort to legal action despite the challenges they faced.
L-R- Director of Airport Operations, Capt. Abdullahi Mohmood, GM Environmental Services, Mrs. Nanlo Christopher, GM Public Affair FAAN, flanked by other staffs and Drector presents at the event in Lagos on Friday
The Wildlife Hazard Control Equipment stored in a container at MMIA LagosÂ
