A letter from the Diaspora By King Wale AdeSanya
Introduction:
With the ambition of our new Aviation Minister, Mr. Festus Keyamo, I would like to advise that he should look beyond China and America for potential partnerships in the industry.
The construction and successful operation of the new Istanbul Airport in Turkey is a testament to the transformative power of infrastructure development. This state-of-the-art aviation hub stands as a shining example for countries like Nigeria, which are striving to bolster their transportation networks. The remarkable journey of Istanbul Airport, particularly the time it took to make it operational, offers valuable insights that can be learned and applied to Nigeria’s infrastructure development plans.
The Istanbul Airport Project:
The idea of constructing a new airport in Istanbul was conceived to address the growing demand for air travel in Turkey and establish Istanbul as a global aviation hub. The project began in 2014 with ambitious goals of making Istanbul Airport one of the largest and most technologically advanced airports in the world.
Timelines and Challenges:
The construction of an airport of this scale does not happen overnight, and Istanbul Airport’s journey was no exception. The project faced numerous challenges, from acquiring a suitable site to managing complex logistics. However, what is truly remarkable is the speed at which the airport was completed and made operational.
Istanbul Airport was constructed in phases, with the first phase completed in record time. The opening ceremony for the initial stage of the airport, known as Istanbul Airport-1, took place on October 29, 2018, just over four years after the project’s inception. The entire airport complex is expected to be fully operational by 2028.
Learning From Istanbul Airport:
1. Strategic Planning and Collaboration:
One of the key lessons Nigeria can learn from Istanbul Airport is the importance of strategic planning and collaboration among various stakeholders. The project involved close coordination between government bodies, construction companies, and aviation experts to ensure efficient execution.
2. Dedicated Focus on Deadlines:
Istanbul Airport’s success lies in the adherence to timelines. Every phase of the project had a defined deadline, ensuring that construction progressed swiftly. Nigeria can benefit from adopting a similar approach, prioritizing the timely completion of infrastructure projects.
3. Integrated Approach to Infrastructure:
Istanbul Airport was designed as an integrated transport hub, seamlessly connecting air, rail, and road networks. Nigeria can learn from this approach by developing infrastructure projects that integrate multiple transportation modes, enhancing connectivity and accessibility.
4. Embracing Technology:
Istanbul Airport’s focus on cutting-edge technology throughout its construction and operation has been remarkable. Nigeria should strive to leverage innovation and automation in its infrastructure planning to optimize efficiency and enhance passenger experience.
5. Harnessing Private Sector Participation:
Istanbul Airport involved private sector investments and expertise, enabling accelerated construction and efficient operations. Nigeria can explore similar partnerships to expedite infrastructure development and relieve pressure on public finances.
Conclusion:
The story of Istanbul Airport’s construction and operational success serves as an inspiration for Nigeria as it endeavors to bolster its infrastructure network to support economic growth. The speed at which Istanbul Airport was made operational, coupled with the meticulous planning and collaboration undertaken, offers a blueprint for Nigeria to learn from. By adopting similar strategies, Nigeria can pave the way for a brighter future, connecting communities, driving economic development, and positioning itself as a regional aviation hub.
King Wale AdeSanya is the National Chairman of the Nigerian and Canadian Business Network https://www.ncbn.ca headquarters in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. He can be reached at King@ncbn.ca
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