The President of the Association of Foreign Airlines and Representatives in Nigeria (AFARN), Dr. Kingsley Nwokoma, has provided an in-depth review of the aviation industry’s performance over the past year, highlighting significant achievements and lingering challenges.
Speaking during AFARN’s annual review session with newsmen in Lagos, Dr. Nwokoma commended stakeholders for their resilience while emphasizing the need for continued improvements to ensure sustainable growth in the sector.
Reflecting on the past year, he noted that the aviation industry has shown remarkable progress, particularly in light of Nigeria’s vast resources.
“In my humble assessment, I think the industry has fared well, even though I know we can do better given our endowed human, material, and natural resources as a nation,” he said.
Among the year’s milestones was the improvement in Nigeria’s aviation ratings, which rose from 49% to 70% following the adoption of Cape Town Convention (CTC) practice directions.
This move, aimed at reducing operational costs for airlines, was described as a step in the right direction for the industry.
Dr. Nwokoma also commended the federal government’s role in facilitating the resumption of Emirates Airlines’ operations in Nigeria and Air Peace’s new routes to London.
For the AFARN president, the relocation of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) headquarters back to Lagos was celebrated as a decision that eases operational burdens for workers and stakeholders.
The industry also achieved a strong pass mark in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) security audit and maintained industrial peace, which Dr. Nwokoma attributed to the leadership of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barr. Festus Keyamo.
However, the year according to him was not without its setbacks. The closure of Dana Air operations and delays in appointing a substantive Director General for the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) were highlighted as areas of concern.
The persistent high cost of aviation fuel, coupled with a soaring exchange rate, has impacted passenger and cargo traffic, he said, created challenges for airline operators and cargo consolidators.
Dr. Nwokoma stressed the importance of addressing these issues urgently, particularly the need for the confirmation of Captain Chris Najomo as the substantive NCAA Director General.
“A body like NCAA, the regulator of the aviation industry, should not be politicized given our ratings and commitments as a contracting state in ICAO conventions,” he said, calling for swift action to prevent disruptions in the industry’s progress.
Looking ahead, Dr. Nwokoma called for greater investments in infrastructure and human capital development, emphasizing the importance of supporting local airlines pursuing Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) projects to reduce capital flight.
He also urged the government to recognize stakeholders who have contributed to the industry’s growth, advocating for policies that foster collaboration and innovation.
The AFARN president announced that the postponed AFARN annual summit would now hold in the first quarter of 2025 and will feature the induction of individuals who have significantly advanced the aviation industry into the AFARN Hall of Fame.
While details of the summit he promised will be communicated to the media and the public in due course.
Dr. Nwokoma expressed optimism for the future of Nigeria’s aviation industry while urging all stakeholders to remain steadfast in their commitment to its development.
