The Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Ona Najomo, has outlined a bold roadmap to reposition Nigeria’s aviation sector as a globally competitive investment destination, anchored on regulatory certainty, improved financing structures, and strengthened operational capacity.
Najomo made this known while delivering his keynote address at the maiden Nigeria Aircraft Acquisition and Investment Summit 2026, held in Lagos on April 1, 2026. The summit brought together top government officials, global aircraft manufacturers, financiers, and key aviation stakeholders to explore practical pathways for boosting aircraft acquisition and sector-wide investments.
In his address, the NCAA boss described the summit as a strategic intervention designed to unlock tangible outcomes for Nigeria’s aviation industry, particularly in overcoming long-standing constraints around aircraft financing and fleet expansion.
He commended the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for spearheading the initiative, noting that the summit reflects a deliberate effort by the Federal Government to reposition the aviation sector under its Renewed Hope Agenda.
Unlocking Capital: Breaking Financing Barriers
Najomo emphasised that access to sustainable and affordable financing remains one of the biggest challenges facing Nigerian airlines. He noted that aircraft acquisition is inherently capital-intensive, requiring innovative financing models and stronger institutional frameworks.
According to him, addressing these challenges will require collaboration between regulators, financiers, and industry operators to develop financing solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique operating environment.
He stressed that strengthening legal protections for investors and ensuring transparency in transactions will be critical in attracting long-term capital into the sector.
Restoring Investor Confidence Through Strong Regulation
On investor confidence, Najomo highlighted the NCAA’s commitment to global best practices, particularly its strict adherence to the Cape Town Convention and the enforcement of the Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorisation (IDERA).
He explained that Nigeria’s domestication of the Cape Town Convention through the Civil Aviation Act 2022, along with the signing of IDERA in October 2024, has significantly improved the country’s attractiveness to global lessors and financiers.
“These frameworks provide assurance that investments in aircraft leasing and financing are protected, thereby reducing risks for international partners,” he said.
Najomo further disclosed that the NCAA is implementing a digitally-driven regulatory system designed to enhance efficiency, transparency, and compliance with international standards. He added that the authority is also investing in capacity building for its workforce to exceed the minimum requirements set by global aviation bodies.
Building Capacity for Sustainable Growth
The NCAA DG stressed that unlocking capacity is critical to sustaining growth in the aviation sector. He identified key areas requiring urgent attention, including infrastructure development, human capital enhancement, and technical capability.
He particularly emphasised the need for Nigeria to develop local Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, warning that reliance on foreign maintenance services leads to significant capital flight and operational inefficiencies.
“Fleet expansion without corresponding maintenance capability undermines the full value of investment,” he noted.
Najomo also called for increased investment in training and development for pilots, engineers, and other aviation professionals to ensure the industry can support modern aircraft operations.
Call for Strategic Discipline Among Airlines
While reiterating the regulator’s commitment to ease of doing business, Najomo urged Nigerian airlines to adopt disciplined and data-driven strategies in fleet acquisition.
He warned against uncoordinated expansion, noting that aircraft selection must align with route networks, passenger demand, and maintenance capabilities to ensure operational efficiency and financial sustainability.
Nigeria Sends Strong Signal to Global Investors
In a clear message to the international aviation community, Najomo declared that Nigeria is open for business and ready to compete on the global stage.
He outlined three key signals to investors: that Nigeria’s aviation market is structured and reform-driven; that the regulator is proactive and aligned with international standards; and that local airlines are prepared for responsible engagement.
Reaffirming the NCAA’s commitment, he assured financiers and lessors that the enforcement of IDERA would remain consistent and transparent.
“Financiers can be confident that Nigeria is serious about protecting aviation investments and creating a predictable regulatory environment,” he said.
Outlook: Towards a New Aviation Era
Najomo concluded his address on an optimistic note, expressing confidence that the summit would deliver actionable outcomes capable of triggering a paradigm shift in aircraft acquisition and aviation investment in Nigeria.
Industry analysts believe that with sustained reforms, improved financing access, and strategic infrastructure investments, Nigeria is well-positioned to emerge as a leading aviation hub in Africa.
NCAA DG Captain Chris Ona Najomo unveils sweeping reforms to boost aviation investment in Nigeria, assuring global financiers of regulatory stability, improved aircraft financing, and sector growth. In a nutshell, Najomo outlines Nigeria’s aviation reform agenda at NAAIS 2026, highlighting investor confidence, aircraft financing, and capacity development.
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