The Federal Government has rolled out electric vehicles at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, marking a major step toward modernising airport operations and improving service efficiency.

At the inaugural ceremony on Thursday, the Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Abdullahi Ganduje, announced the deployment of 10 electric shuttle buses and 20 electric saloon vehicles to support airport activities. He described the initiative as a significant milestone in FAAN’s drive to enhance operational performance and align Nigeria’s aviation sector with international standards.

“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,” Ganduje said.
“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.”

According to him, the adoption of electric vehicles brings both operational and environmental advantages, noting that they are cleaner, quieter and more energy-efficient. He said the initiative would significantly reduce carbon emissions, improve airport environments and enhance the travel and work experience for passengers and staff.

“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.”

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Ganduje commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for backing reforms in the aviation sector, saying current achievements reflected clear policy direction.
“The progress we are witnessing today reflects a clear policy direction that prioritises efficiency, sustainability, and institutional renewal,” he said.

He added that the deployment at NAIA was only the beginning, stressing that the FAAN board would ensure the vehicles were properly utilised, maintained and eventually extended to other airports nationwide, describing the programme as the foundation of a more resilient airport logistics system.

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Also speaking, FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, disclosed that approval had been secured to deploy 100 electric vehicles across major airports as part of a broader partnership and innovation strategy. She said the electric vehicles would operate as airport shuttles at both Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, and NAIA, Abuja.

She described the launch of the first batch of electric shuttle buses at NAIA as a landmark move towards sustainable aviation operations.
“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.”

Kuku said FAAN was simultaneously investing in staff welfare, capacity building and improved service delivery, while tackling long-standing challenges associated with ageing infrastructure.
“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 further revealed plans to establish a network of clean energy solutions across Nigeria’s airports, including solar power systems and full electric vehicle infrastructure, positioning FAAN as a continental leader in eco-friendly aviation management.

Kuku also highlighted FAAN’s “Go-Cashless Initiative”, noting that it had automated payments across all channels, improved revenue collection and reduced leakages. She said the initiative was aimed at promoting transparency, accountability and a modernised passenger experience from the first point of contact.