“Beyond 100 Days: Transforming Nigeria’s Aviation Sector Under President Tinubu’s Administration”

Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development

Since the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria’s aviation sector has been at the forefront of transformative interventions aimed at addressing longstanding challenges. Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, described 2024 as a pivotal year, marked by milestones such as the completion of the Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorization process by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). However, the sector continues to grapple with persistent issues, including flight delays, cancellations, and infrastructure decay.

The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Koko, reflected on these challenges in a recent interview, emphasizing the urgent need to shift from lamentation to actionable solutions. She highlighted key achievements over the past 90 days, including minor rehabilitations across airports that have improved cleanliness, lighting, and accessibility for passengers. Specific strides were made at Abuja’s domestic airport, transforming it from a dim and cramped facility into a brighter, more spacious hub. Similar improvements have been observed across airports in the North, South, and Southeast regions.

Addressing the viability of Nigeria’s 30 airports, Koko rejected the idea of shutting down underperforming ones, citing their economic and social impact. Instead, FAAN is focused on increasing economic activity around these airports, particularly through cargo operations. Efforts include collaborations with state governments and development finance institutions (DFIs) to strengthen agro-cargo supply chains, establish packaging and testing facilities, and drive food security and exports.

Tourism and business activities have also been prioritized, alongside infrastructure linkages to airports, such as rail lines in Abuja and road expansions in Lagos. Plans to establish Lagos and Abuja as major transit hubs and prioritize cargo exports are underway, aligning with broader goals of economic diversification and GDP growth.

On public-private partnerships, Koko affirmed that FAAN is reviewing concession processes to ensure alignment with private sector partners while addressing concerns about job security. Additionally, stakeholders in the sector have proposed measures like establishing an aviation finance bank and tax exemptions for local refineries producing Jet A1 fuel. While supporting specialized financing and credit guarantees, Koko emphasized leveraging existing financial institutions instead of creating new ones.

Runway infrastructure remains a critical focus. With many runways exceeding their 25-year lifespan, FAAN has embarked on a ₦532 billion project to rehabilitate 17 runways, including taxiways, apron expansions, and perimeter fencing. Koko clarified misconceptions about the cost, stressing the safety and operational needs driving the initiative.

Finally, the recent recertification of Lagos and Abuja airports by the NCAA signals improved adherence to international standards, enhancing Nigeria’s image as a global aviation hub. For Koko and her team, this milestone underscores their commitment to sustained progress, even as they navigate challenges that require meticulous oversight and collaboration across all levels of government and industry stakeholders.

As Nigeria’s aviation sector continues its journey of transformation, the focus remains on building sustainable infrastructure, fostering partnerships, and driving economic growth through strategic interventions.