FG Deploys Electric Vehicles to Boost Operations at Abuja Airport

By Umar Zubainatu Kambari

The Federal Government has deployed 10 electric shuttle buses and 20 electric saloon vehicles at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, in a move aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and promoting sustainable aviation practices.

The deployment, carried out on Thursday, forms part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to modernise airport operations and align Nigeria’s aviation sector with global best practices.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, the Chairman of the FAAN Board, Mr. Abdullahi Ganduje, described the initiative as a significant milestone in FAAN’s drive to improve service delivery and operational effectiveness across the nation’s airports.

Ganduje said the electric vehicles would support both airside and landside logistics, including staff movement and service delivery, thereby strengthening passenger coordination and overall efficiency at the airport.

“As part of this deployment, FAAN is introducing 10 electric shuttle buses and 20 electric saloon vehicles into airport operations. These vehicles will enhance logistics, improve staff mobility and ensure smoother coordination of services within the airport environment,” he said.

He noted that the adoption of electric vehicles comes with clear operational and environmental advantages, including reduced carbon emissions, lower noise levels and improved energy efficiency.

According to him, the initiative would contribute to healthier airport environments and a more comfortable experience for passengers and staff, while supporting global sustainability targets such as the 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,” Ganduje said.

The FAAN chairman commended President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s support for reforms in the aviation sector, noting that the progress recorded reflects a policy direction that prioritises efficiency, sustainability and institutional renewal.

He assured that the FAAN board would ensure the effective utilisation and maintenance of the electric vehicles, adding that the programme would be gradually expanded to other airports across the country.

Ganduje said the deployment at NAIA marked the foundation for a more modern and resilient airport logistics system nationwide.

Also speaking at the event, the Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, said the authority had secured approval for the deployment of 100 electric vehicles as part of a broader strategy driven by innovation and partnership.

She explained that the electric vehicles would operate as airport shuttles at both the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, with the Abuja deployment representing the first phase of the initiative.

According to her, the introduction of the 10 state-of-the-art electric shuttle buses at NAIA is a major step towards greening airport operations and reducing the carbon footprint of Nigeria’s aviation sector.

“These electric vehicles represent more than just transport. They symbolise cleaner air, quieter terminals and a strong commitment to sustainable infrastructure in Nigerian aviation,” Kuku said.

She described the initiative as a product of effective collaboration between the public and private sectors, noting that FAAN remains committed to passenger comfort, safety and a seamless airport experience.

Kuku added that FAAN had also improved staff welfare and capacity, while addressing challenges associated with ageing and obsolete facilities through sustained reforms and innovation.

She acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, stating that their backing had enabled FAAN to pursue bold reforms and strategic partnerships.

According to her, FAAN plans to establish a network of clean energy solutions across the nation’s airports, including solar power systems and comprehensive electric vehicle infrastructure, with the goal of positioning the authority as a leader in eco friendly aviation management in Africa.

She further disclosed that FAAN’s “Go-Cashless Initiative” had automated payments across airport services, improved revenue collection efficiency and significantly reduced revenue leakages.

Kuku said the initiative underscores FAAN’s commitment to transparency, accountability and the modernisation of the passenger experience from the first point of contact.