Hughes-led delegation explores technical cooperation, infrastructure support and funding opportunities to modernize Liberia’s airport system
HARBel, Margibi County — The Liberia Airport Authority (LAA) says it is seeking technical partnerships, investment and logistical support to strengthen Liberia’s aviation infrastructure as it participates in a major regional airport conference in Abuja, Nigeria.
The LAA delegation, led by Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Ernest R. Hughes, with Chief Financial Officer Victor Debah, is attending the Airports Council International (ACI) Africa 35th Annual General Assembly, 75th Board and Committee Meetings, Regional Conference and Exhibition, running from September 19 to 25, 2026.
According to a press release issued by the Authority, the weeklong gathering is bringing together airport executives, policymakers, regulators, development partners and aviation industry stakeholders to discuss the future of African aviation under the theme, “Next-Gen Airports: Driving Performance and Resilience.”
The LAA said its participation is intended to strengthen Liberia’s engagement with regional and international aviation institutions while exploring opportunities to improve airport operations, infrastructure and service delivery.
During the conference, the delegation is expected to hold bilateral and multilateral discussions with airport authorities, aviation agencies, development partners, financial institutions and industry stakeholders.
The proposed engagements will focus on technical assistance, operational support, logistics cooperation, capacity development, infrastructure advancement and institutional strengthening.
The Authority said it also plans to explore opportunities for investment, innovation, knowledge transfer and resource mobilization to support the development of Liberia’s airports.
Hughes Pursues Regional Aviation Cooperation
Beyond the ACI Africa conference, Hughes is undertaking separate engagements with key Nigerian aviation institutions, including the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
The discussions are intended to strengthen technical cooperation and secure logistical and capital support that could improve the safety, efficiency and sustainability of Liberia’s aviation infrastructure.
The LAA said the engagements align with its broader objectives of strengthening aviation safety, advancing airport infrastructure development and building technical partnerships to support the long-term growth of the sector.
The Authority also views the conference as an opportunity to deepen regional integration, exchange best practices with other airport operators and explore emerging technologies that could support Liberia’s aviation modernization efforts.
LAA Links Participation to National Development
The Authority said its participation reflects its commitment to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s national development agenda, particularly in improving infrastructure, strengthening regional cooperation and expanding transportation connectivity.
ACI Africa, the regional arm of Airports Council International, represents African airports and promotes advocacy, capacity-building, innovation, connectivity and sustainable growth across the continent’s aviation industry.
The LAA said it remains committed to developing a modern, safe, secure, efficient and resilient airport system capable of supporting economic growth, trade, tourism and regional connectivity while improving services for the traveling public.
The press release did not specify the amount of funding or capital support being sought, identify any agreements finalized during the engagements, or provide a timeline for the anticipated infrastructure improvements.
See more Liberia News Network stories in Google Search by adding LNN as one of your Preferred Sources.
★ Add LNN as a Preferred Source