An aviation industry analyst, Mr. Fortune Idu says, the growing clusters of oil tanker farms within Nigeria’s airport premises pose a serious threat to safety, infrastructure development, and long-term national aviation goals.
In his opening address at the 10th Airport Business Summit and Expo (ABSE), 2025 in Lagos, Mr. Idu expressed deep concern over the unchecked spread of oil depot installations and the indiscriminate allocation of federal airport land to fuel contractors and various government agencies.
According to him, Nigeria’s federal airports now host more fuel depots than operational aircraft or airlines, a troubling reality that raises questions about planning priorities.
“Every fuel contractor wants a depot at the airport, and unfortunately, we are witnessing a saturation of tanker farms that does not translate into additional revenue for the airport. “Instead, it introduces heightened risk, safety concerns, and severely constrains space needed for aviation growth.”
He warned that the resulting congestion from both fuel depots and unauthorized developments by government agencies gives a false impression that the airports are fully utilized.
“This undermines future expansion, disrupts aerodrome design, and threatens the overall business value and purpose of the airports,” Idu cautioned.
Highlighting that airports are meant to serve as special economic zones with carefully planned environments, he emphasized that airport development must follow a structured, long-term approach.
“Airport gestation takes up to 25 years. Empty land within the airport perimeter is not idle land — it is reserved for the future”.
Calling for urgent action, the organizer ABSE, urged the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to undertake a comprehensive land-use audit.
“Only a proper assessment can identify incompatible land-use cases and pave the way for the finalization of a national airport master plan”.
He also stressed the need to halt what he described as “reckless” land acquisitions by public institutions, many of which are eating into core aviation real estate.
On a broader note, Mr. Idu reiterated that airports should be seen and managed as viable business entities.
He said the Airport Business Summit and Expo platform is committed to promoting knowledge sharing and building skills that will help transition Nigeria’s airports from mere aerodrome operations to thriving business hubs.
“The presence of the Permanent Secretary here today presents a valuable opportunity for the industry to contribute meaningfully and guide the strategic direction of aviation development in Nigeria”.
Reporting by Nosa Aituamen