Lagos: Experts in Nigeria’s aviation sector on Thursday made key recommendations to address persistent challenges in airport transit infrastructure, financing, insurance, and aviation data, among others. They spoke during a panel session at the 29th League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) Conference 2025, held in Ikeja, Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Chairman of Air Peace Ltd., Dr. Allen Onyema, highlighted the unfair international stigmatisation faced by Nigeria in the aviation space. He pointed out that the insurance premium paid by a Nigerian airline equates to what five airlines pay in other parts of the world. Onyema also noted that inadequate transit facilities at the Lagos airport have significantly impacted airline revenues. High interest rates, nearly 30 percent, were identified as a major hurdle in aviation financing compared to single-digit rates in many other countries. Onyema urged for self-introspection, financial discipline, and integrity to improve the situation. He also called for government intervention to create a conducive environment for local airlines, recalling the sacrifices made to secure the London route despite setbacks.
The Chief Operating Officer of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Ltd., Mr. Remi Jibodu, underscored the critical link between airport investment and reliable aviation data. He advocated for establishing a central aviation data bank and harmonising data across the sector for effective planning and investment attraction. Jibodu stressed the need for a comprehensive and accessible data plan to support planning, accurate projections, and investor confidence. He noted that with improved dry lease options available, airports should consider infrastructure upgrades.
Mr. Chris Aligbe, Chief Executive Officer of Balujane Konsult, advised Nigerian airlines to spread risks and form alliances similar to foreign counterparts for more efficient operations. He emphasised that only Nigerian carriers could establish a hub in the country and that Nigeria could support at least three strong airlines to form a formidable national presence.
Dr. Thomas Ogungbangbe, CEO of CITA Aviation Fuelling Company, criticized the high interest rates, stating that no airline could survive under such conditions. He suggested the Federal Government consider acquiring a stake in a Nigerian carrier like Air Peace to establish it as a national carrier.
The conference, attended by stakeholders from all aviation industry segments, also explored green financing as a viable means of strengthening airlines’ financial capacity. A compendium detailing the history of aviation in Nigeria, compiled by the association, was launched at the event.