TheCable

The Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja has been named the best airport by size in Africa by the Airports Council International (ACI) on Monday.

The award, which was based on judgements by customers, was also presented to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya.

According to ACI, both airports size caters to between five to 15 million passengers per year.

“This year more than any other, the awards recognise those airports that have listened to their customers and adapted the services and experiences they offer to meet changing needs and expectations under very trying circumstances,” Luis Felipe de Oliveira, ACI World’s director, said.

“I am proud of the achievements of all ASQ award winners which shows their focus on delivering excellence in customer experience and setting an example of excellence for their peers. As we come together as an industry to meet the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the focus on customers that the ASQ programme provides will help guide the way.”

Celebrating the award, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said it represents its commitment to continuously improving customer experience across all its airports.

“The recognition comes at a time when we are geared towards ensuring seamless airport facilitation with the opening of new terminals and upgrading of our current infrastructures across board,” the statement signed by Henrietta Yakubu, FAAN general manager of corporate affairs, read.

“Despite a turbulent year plagued by COVID-19 induced financial struggles, the authority has endeavoured to prioritize customer satisfaction while ensuring that health and safety remain topmost.”

Other airports recognised in Africa included Kotoka International Airport, Ghana (two to five million passengers annually); and Moi International Airport – Mombasa, Kenya (under two million passengers per year).