Nigeria’s aviation sector under-exploited – Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described Nigeria’s aviation industry as one of the most viable and under-exploited markets in Africa. He noted that the sector is ripe for large-scale investment, partnership, and global collaboration. The President who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume delivered the remarks at […]

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described Nigeria’s aviation industry as one of the most viable and under-exploited markets in Africa.
He noted that the sector is ripe for large-scale investment, partnership, and global collaboration.
The President who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume delivered the remarks at the 2025 FAAN National Aviation Conference (FNAC) held on Monday, 17th November 2025, at the Eko Hotel and Convention Centre.
Tinubu said the theme of the conference—“Elevating the Nigerian Aviation Industry through Investment, Partnership and Global Engagements”—aligns closely with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to transform aviation into a major engine for national growth, job creation, and global competitiveness.
He noted that aviation remains one of the world’s most technologically advanced and economically influential sectors, connecting markets, driving tourism, and supporting millions of jobs. In Africa, he added, air transport enhances trade, improves territorial security, supports humanitarian operations, and fosters regional unity.
The President highlighted Nigeria’s strategic geographic position, describing the country as a natural regional hub with massive potential yet to be fully harnessed.
He outlined key achievements recorded in the last two years which included the commissioning of new international terminals in Lagos and Port Harcourt; rehabilitation of major airports in Abuja, Enugu, Kano, and others; strengthening regulatory oversight through closer collaboration with ICAO, IATA, NCAA, and NCAT, among others.
These interventions, he said, are laying the foundation for a modern aviation ecosystem anchored on efficiency, safety, private-sector investment, and global competitiveness.

 

While the government will continue to create an enabling environment, Tinubu stressed that it cannot shoulder the responsibilities alone.

 

Reassuring domestic and foreign investors, the President stated that “there has never been a better time than now to invest.”

 

He listed the factors that make Nigeria a prime investment destination, including its population of over 220 million, the largest domestic air-travel market in Africa, strategic geographic location, expanding middle class, and the $1.7 trillion AfCFTA-driven regional market.

 

Tinubu also identified emerging frontiers that will shape the next decade of aviation growth: aviation cargo and agro-export corridors, expansion of MRO facilities, smart and green airport development, and human-capital development through upgraded training infrastructure.

 

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to aviation safety, efficiency, sustainability, and full implementation of aviation policy reforms, including renewable energy adoption and customer-centric airport upgrades.

 

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Kana said opportunities abound for partnership with FAAN in airport infrastructure modernisation, world class MRO, cargo logistics hubs.

 

He said, “Nigeria’s agricultural and manufacturing potential demands efficient export gateways. Our plan for dedicated cargo and logistics hubs at key FAAN airports will unlock agro-exports, reduce spoilage, and integrate Nigerian producers into global value chains.

 

“These are not just concepts. Throughout this conference, FAAN will present data, timelines, and structured business cases for your review.

 

“The narrative of Nigerian aviation has fundamentally changed. We have shifted from problem-spotting to solution-building. The foundation is solid, the opportunities are clear, and the enabling environment is strengthening every day.”

 

Chairman, Governing Board of FAAN, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje stressed the board’s commitment towards delivering world-class airport infrastructure, boosting operational efficiency, improving security, safety and enhancing passenger experience.

 

“However, these can only be achieved through collaboration and close relationships with investors, regulators, operators, development partners, and innovators,” he said.

 

FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku stated that challenges such as infrastructure gaps, foreign exchange pressures and the imperative for modernisation were opportunities for investment.

 

“These are not merely obstacles; they are Nigeria’s unparalleled investment portfolio. Every “gap” is a clearly marked space for transformative returns. The International Civil Aviation Organisation affirms that for every dollar invested in aviation, nearly four dollars are generated in broader economic growth. Where else can you find such a compelling multiplier,” she said.