The Nigerian aviation sector has made notable strides in embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its operations over the years. However, experts say economic headwinds such as currency devaluation, rising fuel prices, and infrastructure deficits continue to slow the pace of sustainable development in the industry.
On the environmental front, leading airlines like Air Peace and Ibom Air have invested in more fuel-efficient aircraft, including the Embraer E2 jets and orders for Boeing 737 MAX models. These moves aim to cut carbon emissions and align with global climate goals. Yet, operators face financial constraints that hinder fleet renewal and full compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
Airports have also begun adopting green initiatives. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has rolled out energy-efficient upgrades at key terminals and explored solar power projects at airports like Lagos and Abuja. Still, funding gaps have limited the scale of these efforts.
Social responsibility has seen greater traction. Airlines and regulators have stepped up training for pilots, engineers, and other aviation professionals, with programs designed to increase female participation in the industry. Safety measures, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, were widely implemented in collaboration with global aviation bodies. Additionally, some operators and airport authorities have engaged in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, including school donations and health outreach, though critics argue these are still mostly sporadic.
Governance reforms are gradually strengthening the sector’s foundations. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has improved licensing transparency and regulatory oversight, bolstered by the enactment of the Civil Aviation Act 2022. This has provided a stronger legal framework for safety and governance practices. Meanwhile, some airlines have enhanced their corporate governance structures in preparation for future capital raises or international partnerships. Despite this, financial mismanagement remains a problem, as evidenced by the struggles of several domestic carriers over the years.
Anti-corruption efforts in airport concession processes and aviation contracts have seen mixed results. While leadership changes in FAAN, NCAA, and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) have aimed to promote accountability, systemic transparency challenges persist.
Industry analysts note that Nigeria’s economic instability continues to make ESG investments a lower priority for many aviation stakeholders who are focused on survival. Limited access to climate finance, fragmented public-private collaboration, and weak investor confidence further stall progress.
Looking ahead, aviation leaders face mounting pressure to align with global sustainability targets such as ICAO’s 2050 net-zero emissions goal. Key priorities include expanding renewable energy adoption at airports, improving ESG reporting frameworks, enhancing skills in sustainable aviation, and attracting green financing through partnerships with development banks and ESG-conscious investors.
Despite the challenges, sector leaders acknowledge that ESG is no longer optional but critical for long-term growth and global competitiveness.
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