ACI Africa 2026: African Airport Leaders Tackle Financial Sustainability, Safety
By Cynthia Okere, Lagos
African airport leaders and aviation stakeholders are discussing financial sustainability, digital transformation, safety, security and climate resilience at the 35th Airports Council International, ACI Africa, Annual General Assembly, Regional Conference and Exhibition in Abuja.
The week-long gathering, hosted by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, from September 19 to 25, brings together airport executives, policymakers, regulators, aviation professionals and technology providers from across Africa and beyond.
With the theme, “Next-Gen Airports: Driving Performance and Resilience,” the conference is examining how African airports can remain commercially viable while responding to technological changes, infrastructure needs, security risks and rising passenger expectations.
Financial sustainability has emerged as a major concern. ACI Africa Secretary-General, Ali Tounsi, said about 80 per cent of airports in Africa are not financially efficient, with smaller airports facing greater challenges in sustaining operations.
ACI Africa committees are also examining airport economics, technology and innovation, security, safety and environmental sustainability. The Safety and Technical Committee undertook an airfield tour of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, as part of the conference’s technical activities.
Digital transformation is receiving particular attention, with discussions focusing on smart airport technologies, automation and improved passenger processing.
More than 500 participants are expected at the gathering, alongside over 40 speakers, sponsors and exhibitors.
FAAN Managing Director and Chief Executive, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, has highlighted Nigeria’s growing role in African aviation, noting the country’s position as Africa’s second-largest domestic aviation market.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and FAAN Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, said the gathering is expected to produce practical ideas, partnerships and solutions capable of improving airport performance across Africa.
The initial sessions have largely focused on committee and technical meetings, while the official opening ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, September 22, at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
Attention will subsequently shift to the main regional conference and exhibition, with discussions expected to focus further on building financially sustainable, safe, technologically advanced and resilient airports across Africa.