The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has said it is determined to work with entrepreneurs who have proven track records in their various business endeavours, in its quest to transform Nigerian airports.
A statement by the agency quoted the Managing Director, Mr. George Uriesi, as making the remark on Monday while declaring open a new restaurant, Things Remembered, at the departure lounge of the newly remodelled domestic terminal 1 (Lagos airport).
Uriesi, who observed that the new restaurant was of international standard in terms of facilities, layout, ambience and quality of service, noted that the vision of the Federal Government to transform Nigerian airports into centres of excellence was expected to start yielding results.
The statement was signed by the General Manager, Corporate Communications, Mr. Yakubu Dati.
It said the authority was determined to prove that good things could come out of the public service through the provision of modern airport facilities.
He also said that the remodelled Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport had been reopened, while the remodelled Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri would also be reopened on March 22.
Other remodelled airports also slated for reopening are those in Yola, Enugu, Jos, Port-Harcourt and Kaduna.
In a related development, the FAAN boss has announced that work will soon begin on the construction of five new international terminals in Lagos, Kano, Abuja, Enugu and Port-Harcourt by July this year.
According to him, the development will pave the way for the commencement of the aerotropolis concept designed to turn around the fortunes of aviation in Nigeria.
Uriesi said travellers using the new GAT in Lagos had more reasons to enjoy the facilities with Things Remembered having a huge lounge where passengers could relax before taking their flights.
The Chief Operating Officer, Things Remembered, Mr. Benedict Njogwuani, said the facility was a realisation of the dream of its founder and chief executive officer, Mrs. Adeola Omikunle.
He said the firm had diversified into in-flight catering, providing flight catering to some airlines, including Medview Airlines, Airfirst and Aero Contractors.
He further added that the vision of the company was to partner with the FAAN to provide world class restaurant facilities in every airport in the country.