….airport concessions, national carrier Project on the horizon
As Nigeria’s aviation community gathered to mark the 14th edition of the Nigeria Aviation Awards (NIGAV), the occasion became more than just a celebration of excellence, it served as a reflective platform for evaluating the sector’s trajectory and previewing its future.
Co-chairman of the event and aviation expert, Dr. Richard Aisuebeogun, delivered a comprehensive report highlighting the progress, challenges, and outlook for the Nigerian aviation industry.
Theme: “Foundation for Accelerated Aviation Growth (FAAG),” this year’s event emphasized the significance of institutionalizing a robust performance review system, one that assesses not just achievements but also policy execution and sectoral alignment with broader development goals.
Dr. Aisuebeogun expressed confidence that NIGAV could evolve into an annual appraisal framework, akin to international models such as IATA and ACI industry reports.
Reflecting on 2024, the sector witnessed a mix of progress and persistent obstacles. Despite economic headwinds marked by currency devaluation, soaring operational costs, and a volatile global market, Nigeria’s aviation industry showed commendable resilience.
Airlines expanded fleets and routes, regulatory frameworks were revisited, and new infrastructure projects began to take shape.
One of the defining moments of the year was the restoration of international investor confidence, largely spurred by government intervention in the settlement of legacy debts owed to foreign airlines; debts that had dampened the appeal of Nigerian routes.
The resulting diplomatic resolution enabled renewed partnerships and paved the way for Air Peace’s landmark entry into the UK airspace. This bold move underscored Nigeria’s readiness to assert itself in global aviation through reciprocity under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA).
Regulatory reforms also gained traction. Under the leadership of the newly confirmed Director General, Capt. Chris Najomo, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) embarked on a review of key oversight processes. Notably, the authority strengthened its consumer protection unit to address growing passenger complaints, including airfare spikes and delays.
Airlines also made notable strides in fleet modernization. Ibom Air firmed up its order for ten Airbus A220s, while Overland Airways and Air Peace announced new aircraft acquisitions, setting the tone for a more efficient and competitive local market.
Importantly, Nigeria’s compliance with the Cape Town Convention has enhanced the country’s credibility, enabling operators to access low-cost, long-term aircraft leasing; an unprecedented shift in financing possibilities.
Meanwhile, domestic route expansion and the establishment of new airports across the country continued, although passenger utilization remains relatively low compared to Nigeria’s population. Innovative partnerships, such as the collaboration between Enugu State and local airlines, suggest a new model for route development based on shared investment and risk.
The year also marked a turning point in unmanned aviation, with growing interest in drone operations. The NCAA formalized the regulatory landscape by setting up a dedicated UAS department and releasing new rules under Nig. CAR Part 21.
This move has positioned Nigeria to tap into the vast potential of drones, autonomous flight, and AI-powered air mobility, which are poised to redefine the future of aviation.
However, infrastructure challenges persist. Budget constraints, the 50% deduction policy affecting aviation agency funds, and vandalism, like the short-lived success of airfield lighting at Lagos airport’s Runway 18R, have slowed progress. Yet, advances in air traffic control systems and radar installations signal continued investment in safety and modernization.
There were also painful setbacks. Helicopter incidents, service lapses, and the strain of high Jet A1 prices made 2024 a difficult year for operators.
Stakeholders pushed back against controversial charges, like NAMA’s proposed helicopter landing fees, emphasizing the financial pressure already weighing on the sector.
Looking to 2025, the industry is expected to shift from foundational efforts to full-scale implementation.
The government’s plan to commence airport concessions will likely attract private capital to upgrade airport infrastructure, while policies aimed at easing access to foreign exchange and expanding local MRO capabilities could reduce costs for airlines.
A resolution surrounding the Nigeria Air project is also anticipated, alongside a growing ambition among domestic carriers to strengthen their presence in West and Central Africa.
As cargo operations grow, particularly through the rise of SME-driven e-commerce, opportunities abound, though vigilance remains necessary to combat illicit trafficking.
Dr. Aisuebeogun concluded by stressing the need for consistency in policy, harmonization of legacy and current agendas, and the establishment of an industry-specific financial institution.
He advocated for tax incentives and more strategic fuel sourcing partnerships to sustain momentum. Above all, he called for a collective effort to create a more inclusive and data-driven annual industry review.
Though challenges remain, the resilience demonstrated in 2024 has laid a credible foundation for growth.
If effectively harnessed, 2025 could be the year Nigeria’s aviation industry charts a transformative course, toward modernization, profitability, and sustainable development.
