The Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, and the Director of Airport Operations, Capt. Abdullahi Mahmood, have received prestigious professional and traditional honours. These honours recognise their leadership, contributions to their respective fields, and commitment to service. Kuku was conferred with the Honorary Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), while Mahmood received the traditional title of Barden Gabas of Mubi Emirate in Adamawa State.
Kuku received the fellowship at the Institute’s Fellowship Investiture Ceremony held on Saturday, 31 October 2026, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos. The Honorary Fellowship is the Institute’s highest membership distinction, recognising her professional accomplishments and contributions to banking, financial services, and the aviation industry. With this recognition, the FAAN Managing Director is entitled to use the professional designation Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers (FCIB).
Kuku’s career spans several years of experience across the financial services and aviation sectors. Before her involvement in the aviation industry, she had professional engagements with the Bank of Montreal, Ernst & Young, and Bank PHB. Her extensive experience and expertise have contributed significantly to her current role at FAAN.
Similarly, Mahmood was conferred with the traditional title of Barden Gabas of Mubi Emirate by His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr Abubakar Isa Ahmadu, CFR, the Emir of Mubi. The traditional title, historically associated with bravery and valour, recognises Mahmood’s leadership and contributions to service. It also places greater responsibility on him to support peace, unity, and development within the Mubi Emirate.
The two recognitions have attracted commendations within FAAN, with the Authority describing them as reflections of the professional expertise, leadership, and commitment to service demonstrated by members of its management. According to the Authority, the honours also highlight the contributions of its senior officials to national development beyond their immediate responsibilities in the aviation sector.
FAAN management and staff congratulated both executives, describing the recognitions as well-deserved acknowledgements of their professional achievements and service. The Authority also expressed confidence that the honours would further encourage them to sustain their contributions to the development of Nigeria’s aviation industry and the country at large.
The prestigious honours received by Kuku and Mahmood demonstrate the recognition of their hard work and dedication to their respective fields. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to others in the aviation industry and beyond. The honours also underscore the importance of leadership, professionalism, and commitment to service in driving national development.
Key points
- FAAN MD, Olubunmi Kuku, receives Honorary Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN).
- Airport Operations Director, Capt. Abdullahi Mahmood, receives traditional title of Barden Gabas of Mubi Emirate.
- The honours recognise the leadership, contributions, and commitment to service of Kuku and Mahmood.
