The 29th Annual Conference of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC), slated for this Thursday in Lagos, is poised to be a pivotal event for the Nigerian aviation sector. The conference, themed “Aviation Financing in Nigeria: The Risks, Opportunities, and Prospects,” will delve into the intricacies of funding and investment within the industry, bringing together key stakeholders from government, regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and the aviation sector itself to explore critical issues and formulate actionable solutions. This year’s conference arrives at a crucial juncture for Nigerian aviation, as the industry grapples with economic challenges, infrastructural limitations, and the need for sustainable growth. The forum aims to provide a platform for robust discussion, fostering collaboration and generating concrete recommendations to address the sector’s financial hurdles and unlock its vast potential.
The LAAC has assembled a distinguished lineup of speakers and panelists, ensuring a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the conference’s theme. Leading the discourse will be Mr. Bismarck Rewane, renowned economist and Managing Director of Financial Derivatives Company Limited. Mr. Rewane’s keynote address will offer a macroeconomic perspective on the Nigerian economy, analyzing investment trends and proposing sustainable financing strategies specifically tailored to the aviation sector. His expertise is expected to shed light on the broader economic context within which the aviation industry operates, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities presented by the current financial landscape. Furthermore, Mr. Gbenga Alade, Managing Director of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), will provide insights into the role of asset management in aviation financing, offering perspectives on risk mitigation and investment recovery strategies.
A critical contribution to the conference’s intellectual discourse will come from Dr. Gabriel Olowo, a prominent aviation economist, who will deliver a keynote address focusing on air transport economics and industry dynamics. His presentation will delve into the specific economic principles governing the aviation sector, analyzing market forces, demand-supply dynamics, and the impact of regulatory frameworks on industry performance. Dr. Olowo’s expertise will provide a theoretical framework for understanding the economic realities of the aviation sector and inform the development of effective financing strategies. This academic perspective will be complemented by practical insights from industry veterans, ensuring a balanced and comprehensive discussion.
The conference will also feature significant government participation, underscoring the importance of policy and regulation in driving sector growth. Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, will be the Special Guest of Honour. His presence signifies the government’s commitment to addressing the financial challenges facing the aviation industry and fostering a conducive environment for investment. Mr. Keyamo is expected to provide valuable insights into government policy direction, outlining financing frameworks, sectoral reforms, and initiatives aimed at stimulating growth and enhancing the competitiveness of Nigerian aviation. His contribution will provide crucial context for the discussions and help align industry strategies with government objectives.
Adding a regulatory perspective to the conference, Capt. Chris Najomo, Director-General of Civil Aviation, will deliver a goodwill message on behalf of the regulatory body. His address will emphasize the importance of a stable investment environment and effective regulatory oversight in promoting sustainable growth within the aviation sector. Capt. Najomo’s message will underscore the role of the regulatory body in ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance within the industry, thereby building investor confidence and attracting much-needed capital. This regulatory perspective will complement the government’s policy pronouncements, highlighting the collaborative approach necessary for fostering a thriving aviation sector.
The conference will culminate in a panel discussion featuring seasoned industry experts, bringing together diverse viewpoints and practical experience to address the conference’s central theme. The panel will include Dr. Alex Nwuba, Chairman of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association; Mr. Chris Aligbe, former General Manager of the now-defunct Nigeria Airways; Dr. Thomas Ogungbangbe, CEO of CITA Energies Ltd; and Capt. Roland Iyayi, CEO of TopBrass Aviation, amongst others. This diverse panel will offer a multifaceted perspective on aviation financing, drawing on their extensive experience in aircraft ownership, airline management, energy, and aviation consulting. Their combined insights will provide a rich tapestry of practical knowledge and informed opinions, contributing to a robust and comprehensive exploration of the risks, opportunities, and prospects of aviation financing in Nigeria. The panel discussion promises to be a dynamic and engaging segment of the conference, generating valuable insights and actionable recommendations for the industry’s advancement.
