The United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group Managing Director/CEO, Oliver Alawuba, has stressed the need for public and private institutions to come together to build and revamp the nation’s assets.

Alawuba said this during the commissioning of the renovated departure section of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Friday, December 20, 2024.

The UBA GMD, who lauded the collaboration that brought the project to fruition, said: “This renovation is a testament of UBA’s belief in the transformative power of investing in national assets.

“By modernising our airports, we not only enhance infrastructure but also position Nigeria as a global hub for tourism, trade, and investment.”

Alawuba highlighted the economic impact of such initiatives, urging increased private-sector participation in national development.

He added: “Public-private partnerships like this demonstrate what can be achieved when we unite for a shared vision of progress and investing in infrastructure catalyses economic growth, improves travel experiences, and creates opportunities across various sectors of the economy.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. The commissioning of the renovated departure section serves as a reminder of what strategic partnerships can achieve in driving national development and elevating Nigeria’s global standing.”

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While commissioning the project, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), commended UBA for executing the project, a feat he termed a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Keyamo said: “This renovated departure section exemplifies the bank’s commitment to elevating aviation infrastructure, improving passenger experiences, and fostering international partnerships.

“It is a proud moment for the ministry and all stakeholders involved, and I thank the management of UBA for pioneering this initiative.”

The minister highlighted other key achievements of his ministry, including compliance with the Cape Town Convention, the launch of a consumer protection portal, and advancements in major infrastructure projects such as the second runway at Abuja Airport and solar energy integration in airport operations.

Also speaking at the event, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, commended UBA and other stakeholders for their contributions.

“This project reflects FAAN’s dedication to delivering world-class aviation infrastructure. The enhanced departure section not only elevates passenger experiences but also strengthens Nigeria’s competitive position in global aviation,” Kuku stated.

She called for more private-sector participation, emphasising that “partnerships like these are essential to transforming the aviation sector into a beacon of excellence.”

The Star