KANO, Nigeria — A Federal High Court sitting in Kano has advised the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and residents of the Kano Aviation Staff Quarters to pursue an amicable resolution in their dispute over the ownership of the government residential estate, as the long-running legal battle moves toward possible settlement.
Justice Simon Amobeda gave the advice on Thursday during proceedings in a suit instituted by the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Aviation Quarters Residents Association and six other plaintiffs, who are challenging issues surrounding the ownership and control of the housing estate.
The judge encouraged both parties to explore alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, noting that an out-of-court settlement could provide a more practical and lasting solution than prolonged litigation.
The case stems from disagreements over the ownership status and administration of the Kano Aviation Staff Quarters, a residential estate occupied by aviation workers and other residents. The plaintiffs are seeking judicial intervention over claims relating to their interests in the property, while FAAN maintains its position regarding ownership and management of the estate.
Although proceedings continued in court, Justice Amobeda urged both sides to engage in meaningful dialogue with a view to resolving the dispute without further escalation.
Legal observers say the court’s recommendation reflects the judiciary’s growing preference for mediation in civil disputes involving public institutions, particularly where negotiated settlements may help preserve relationships and reduce lengthy legal proceedings.
Representatives of the Aviation Quarters Residents Association and FAAN were present during the hearing, where arguments relating to the ownership dispute were outlined before the court. However, details of the parties’ respective legal positions were not extensively discussed in open court following the judge’s recommendation for mediation.
The Kano Aviation Staff Quarters has for years served as accommodation for aviation personnel and other occupants connected to airport operations. The ownership dispute has generated uncertainty among residents, many of whom are seeking clarity over their rights and the future of the estate.
Legal experts note that mediation could provide both parties with an opportunity to negotiate issues such as property rights, occupancy arrangements and estate management without the costs and delays often associated with prolonged court battles.
The Federal High Court is expected to continue monitoring the matter while allowing the parties time to explore the possibility of an amicable settlement. Should mediation fail, the court is likely to resume full hearing of the substantive suit and determine the ownership dispute through judicial proceedings.
The outcome of the case could have significant implications for both FAAN’s management of government-owned residential facilities and the rights of residents occupying aviation staff quarters in Kano.
