The Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has pledged the support of the agency’s board to Cross River State as it works to strengthen its aviation sector and prepare for a major African conference.

Ganduje, a former governor of Kano State, made the commitment in Calabar during a state banquet organised in his honour by the Cross River Government while on a facility tour of the state.

He commended Governor Bassey Otu for what he described as his commitment to good governance and infrastructure development, particularly road construction and urban renewal projects.

Ganduje said his years in public service had exposed him to different approaches to governance across the country, adding that Cross River had distinguished itself through its infrastructure development and an environment that allows citizens to engage with government.

He also observed that the state had maintained its reputation for cleanliness despite its growing population.

Ganduje stressed the importance of considering local environmental conditions when developing infrastructure to ensure that public investments remain sustainable.

He said aviation was critical to the development of tourism and investment in Cross River and pledged FAAN’s support for the state’s aviation ambitions.

Otu, in his remarks, praised Ganduje’s experience in public administration, politics and party management, saying effective political leadership requires experience, perseverance and the ability to accommodate diverse interests.

The governor disclosed that Cross River was preparing to host a major African conference expected to attract more than 900 participants, including heads of state and senior government officials.

He said the state was strengthening security, airport facilities, transportation and other critical infrastructure ahead of the event, stressing the need to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.

Otu thanked Ganduje for visiting the state, saying the engagement provided an opportunity to discuss development, investment and cooperation between Cross River and federal aviation authorities.