The Acting Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, has called for collective efforts to transform Africa’s air transport sector into a cornerstone of economic integration and sustainable development.
Speaking at the inaugural International Air Transport Conference organized by the World United Consumer Organization in Abuja, Captain Najomo emphasized the theme, “Air Transport in Africa: Prospects and Challenges,” as a critical starting point for addressing the sector’s pressing issues.
He highlighted the underwhelming global contribution of African aviation, which is constrained by slow infrastructure development, high operational costs, and complex regulatory frameworks.
This is despite its vital role in facilitating trade, tourism, and socio-economic development, the sector continues to face significant hurdles.
However, he noted that initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) signal a unified resolve among African nations to overcome these barriers.
These frameworks, Najomo stated, provide a roadmap for achieving the African Union’s Agenda 2063 by enabling the seamless movement of people and goods across the continent.
The NCAA helmsman acknowledged the immense potential for growth within African aviation, driven by factors such as a rapidly expanding population, urbanization, and the rise of a mobile middle class.
He projected exponential growth in air travel demand over the next two decades but stressed the need for targeted investment to close gaps in infrastructure, capacity, and technology.
Captain Najomo urged governments, airlines, airport operators, and private investors to collaborate in unlocking the sector’s untapped potential.
“The time to act is now,” he stated, pointing to the need for policies that reduce restrictive agreements, enhance access to underserved routes, and attract financing.
The Acting Director General outlined critical areas for transformation, including: regional connectivity, financial frameworks, innovation and technology and human capital development.
Captain Najomo emphasized that the success of African aviation depends on sustained collaboration.
He commended the conference as a valuable platform for exchanging best practices, aligning policies, and forging partnerships to address systemic challenges. “By working together, we can chart a sustainable and integrated roadmap for Africa’s aviation sector,” he said.
The NCAA DG urged stakeholders to ensure that the conference’s deliberations translate into actionable strategies.
He expressed confidence in the continent’s ability to overcome its challenges and leverage its opportunities, provided there is visionary leadership and collective resolve.
“The future of African aviation is bright, Let us build a sector that connects, empowers, and uplifts every citizen of our continent, driving Africa’s socio-economic transformation in the process.”
