Senator Fatai Buhari, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, has announced that the Senate is drafting a new bill aimed at regulating airline operations in Nigeria. The primary focus of this legislation is to limit the number of routes used by airlines with three or fewer aircraft. During the South-West Regional Air Transportation Summit 2024 in Lagos, Buhari highlighted the challenges faced by passengers, emphasizing that the lack of cooperation among airlines, particularly through codesharing, has contributed to negative flying experiences. He urged support for the proposed bill, which would require airlines to possess a minimum of four or five aircraft, assigning specialized routes to those that do not meet this criterion. While acknowledging some operators’ resistance to this regulation, he insisted that it is necessary for the benefit of the Nigerian flying public.
Participants at the summit echoed Buhari’s calls for significant reform of Nigeria’s aviation policies to foster growth and development within the sector. Central to these discussions was the proposal for establishing a special aviation development fund dedicated exclusively to enhancing infrastructure, safety measures, and human resources in the industry. Dr. Jekwu Ozoemene, Executive Director of the Alternative Bank, noted that inconsistent policies had hindered the sector’s growth, urging stakeholders to pursue public-private partnerships aimed at investing in critical areas like airport infrastructure, navigation services, and aircraft maintenance. Ozoemene stressed that for Nigeria to optimize its aviation potential, all parts of the value chain must collaborate effectively.
Moreover, industry experts have emphasized the need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks to harness global aviation opportunities and fuel national economic development. Oluseyi Ogunleye, a former representative of the U.S. Transportation Security Administration in West Africa, highlighted the pivotal role of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in guiding the evolution of the aviation sector. He advocated for inclusive dialogue among government, industry stakeholders, and the public to effectively address the sector’s challenges and unlock its full potential. Ogunleye called for immediate action and a shared vision of progress, urging collaboration to enhance aviation operations in Nigeria.
The overarching sentiment among the stakeholders at the summit was that necessary changes are long overdue for Nigeria’s aviation industry, which has faced various obstacles that hinder its growth. Participants identified lack of investment, outdated infrastructure, and safety issues as barriers to the sector’s competitiveness. The establishment of a dedicated aviation fund is seen as a crucial step toward rectifying these challenges, ensuring sustainable development, and enhancing operational efficiency within the industry. The stakeholders stressed that addressing these issues is vital not only for the aviation sector but also for the broader Nigerian economy.
Key advocates stressed the importance of collaboration between government bodies and private sector entities in revitalizing the aviation industry. By fostering partnerships and leveraging investments in infrastructure and services, Nigeria can make significant strides toward achieving international aviation standards. This collaboration is expected to improve passenger experiences and create a more viable airline industry, which ultimately contributes to national economic stability and growth. There is a shared belief among participants that with the right policies and strategic investments, Nigeria’s aviation sector can emerge as a leader in the global marketplace.
In conclusion, the discussions at the South-West Regional Air Transportation Summit, anchored by proposed legislation and calls for reform, underscore a committed effort toward revitalizing Nigeria’s aviation industry. As the Senate prepares the bill addressing the minimum aircraft requirement, the emphasis on establishing a dedicated aviation development fund presents a pathway toward addressing the systemic issues plaguing the sector. It is imperative that all stakeholders unify their efforts, ensuring regulatory measures align with the industry’s growth potential and public interests. Through concerted efforts, Nigeria can enhance its aviation infrastructure, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable air travel for all citizens.
