FAAN unveils new transport system at Abuja airport

…30 electric vehicles deployed as FAAN moves to expand nationwide

By Nnasom David, Abuja

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has launched a new electric transport system at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, marking a major shift toward cleaner, more efficient airport operations and signalling plans for nationwide rollout.

The initiative, unveiled on Thursday, saw the deployment of over 30 electric vehicles, including 10 electric shuttle buses and 20 electric saloon cars, to support both airside and landside logistics, staff movement and passenger coordination.

Flagging off the programme, Chairman of the FAAN Governing Board, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, described the rollout as a significant milestone in the authority’s drive to modernise airport operations and align Nigeria’s aviation sector with global best practices.

“This deployment marks an important step in improving service delivery, modernising airport logistics and positioning Nigerian airports for the future,” Ganduje said.

According to him, the electric vehicles will enhance operational efficiency while delivering clear environmental benefits.

“Electric vehicles are cleaner, quieter and more energy-efficient. They significantly reduce carbon emissions, improve the airport environment and provide a more comfortable experience for both staff and passengers,” he noted.

Ganduje added that the predictable performance and lower maintenance needs of electric vehicles would strengthen monitoring, coordination and accountability, translating into more transparent and passenger-friendly services.

The FAAN chairman said the initiative also aligns with global sustainability targets, including the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) net-zero carbon emissions goal for 2050.

“As a Board, we are committed to ensuring this programme is effectively utilised, properly maintained and gradually expanded to other airports across the country. Today’s deployment is not the end, but the foundation of a more resilient and modern airport logistics system,” he said.

In her welcome address, FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, described the project as a key part of the authority’s strategy to open its operations to innovation and private sector partnerships.

She said such collaborations had already delivered tangible results, citing the Go-Cashless Initiative, which has automated payments across FAAN’s channels, improved revenue efficiency and reduced leakages.

“This is about transparency, accountability and modernising the passenger experience from the very first touchpoint,” Kuku said.

She announced that FAAN had secured approval to deploy 100 electric vehicles as airport shuttles at both the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

“Today, we begin this journey with the first phase—the launch of 10 state-of-the-art electric shuttle buses. They represent cleaner air, quieter terminals and our commitment to sustainable aviation infrastructure,” she said.

Kuku added that improving surface access to airports remains a critical priority, noting that the Nigerian-made NEV T6 electric buses would make airport travel cleaner, quieter and more efficient.

“We intend to scale this model. In the near future, we envision clean-energy solutions across all our airports, from electric vehicles to solar power infrastructure, positioning FAAN as a leader in eco-friendly aviation management in Africa,” she said.

Speaking on operations, Head of Flight Operations at Possible EVS, Abimbola Gaya, said the company partnered with Zuiid Electric, the manufacturer of the buses, to provide zero-emission shuttle services from the airport to the city centre.

“The service will run from 7am to 7pm at a fare of ₦10,000 per passenger. This is aimed at providing passengers with easy, reliable access to transportation while promoting zero-emission mobility,” she said.

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