The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has said that Nigerian airlines are facing precarious economic situation and could all be shut down if the regulatory authority abides strictly by the result of the financial audit carried out on the operators.
This was disclosed by the acting Director-General, Captain Chris Najomo, who said the domestic airlines are currently going through a lot of financial challenges and many are struggling to sustain their operations, which is a reflection of the deteriorating economic situation in the country; but assured that the regulatory authority is doing everything possible to support the airlines and ensure that they operate safely.
Speaking at the South-West Regional Air Transportation Summit in Lagos yesterday, themed ‘Repositioning the Nigerian Aviation Industry for Financial Capability and Economic Viability: An Inclusive Regulatory Dialogue,’ Najomo who was represented by the Director, Aerodrome and Airspace Standards (DAAS), Godwin Gyang Balang, said although the Nigerian economy is facing significant macroeconomic and developmental upheavals but with proper planning and commitment, the challenges would be surmounted with innovative approach.
“At the highest levels of governance, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, laid out an Eight-Point Agenda for economic restoration and growth, which redefined the presidential priority areas of the administration. This represented a clarion call for all government agencies to efficiently execute their respective mandates.
“The aviation sector aligned with the President’s priority areas through
the the aviation Minister’s Five-Point Agenda. This remains crucial given
the vital role civil aviation plays in national economic development,
international trade and investment opportunities,” Najomo said.
He said the summit reflects NCAA’s commitment to realign its strategies and approaches in fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities, especially as it relates to the strategic initiatives of the minister of aviation and President Tinubu, adding that the outcome will signal a new era of inclusive regulatory practices, fostering sector growth, safety, service excellence, and improved passenger experiences.
He mentioned that specific objectives of the summit include advocating for adequate funding, sound financial management and operational safety in
Nigeria’s civil aviation; reviewing and enhancing existing service standards to align with international standards and securing commitments from stakeholders to adopt adequate funding and financial management practices in line with the Minister’s 5-point agenda.
Najomo said the summit was also to strengthen airlines and other service providers to enhance operational efficiency and international competitiveness; Supporting the sustainable growth of the local airline industry while promoting compliance with national and international obligations and assessing existing local laws and international regulations to ensure compliance and improve funding, financial management, and safety amongst others.
The Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN),
Olubunmi Kuku, said at the conference that to harness aviation potential, Nigeria must confront its challenges and embrace transformative strategies, noting that modernising the airports, investing in state-of-the-art technologies, and ensuring world-class facilities are crucial.
This, she said will not only enhance passenger experience but also attract global airlines and boost tourism,adding that there is also a need to strengthen regulatory framework and remarked that by fostering a transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly environment, Nigeria can encourage both local and international investments.
“Investing in the training and development of our aviation professionals is non-negotiable. From pilots to ground staff, the competence and dedication of our workforce are key to maintaining high standards of safety and service,” she said.
