Nigeria’s aviation industry has been urged to fast-track digital transformation to remain competitive on the global stage.
Industry experts warn that continued slow adoption of technology could erode revenue potential and weaken operational efficiency across the sector.
They stated this at the first anniversary of the ICAN Aviation Chapter in Lagos, with the theme: “Digital transformation, professional excellence and financial governance within the Nigeria’s aviation industry”.
Stakeholders across finance and aviation agreed that the sector must urgently move away from manual, cash-driven systems to fully automated processes.
Director of Membership and Affairs at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Alhaji Shakiru Balogun, said outdated transaction methods still create loopholes for revenue leakages and weak accountability, estimating that the industry currently operates at just about half of global efficiency levels.
He noted that while progress has been made through electronic payments and automated platforms, deeper digital integration across ticketing, check-in and other passenger services is critical to improving transparency and boosting earnings.
Alhaji Balogun also stressed the need for wider public acceptance of digital tools, describing it as a key factor in accelerating the transition.
Chairman of the ICAN Aviation Chapter, Mr. Ayodele Olatiregun, reinforced the position, saying automation of financial and operational systems is now standard practice globally.
According to him, aviation remains heavily finance-driven, making accurate, transparent and technology-backed payment systems essential for sustainability.
He added that the chapter’s growing industry engagement and training initiatives reflect rising demand for digital and financial reforms across the aviation ecosystem.
On his part, Vice Pioneer Chairman, Dr. Bilyaminu Tijani, described aviation as the gateway to the economy, warning that failure to embrace technology could cost Nigeria significant economic value.
He pointed to emerging tools such as artificial intelligence, AI as game changers capable of accelerating processes, improving decision-making and strengthening financial inclusion, while calling for continuous training of both professionals and users.
Also speaking, aviation finance expert Mr. John Italume, said modern airport operations now depend heavily on technology to enhance passenger experience, reduce manual processes and ensure accurate revenue tracking.
He noted that ongoing capacity building and curriculum upgrades within ICAN are already equipping professionals with the digital and data skills required in a rapidly evolving industry.
Chairman of the occasion, Ambassador Comfort Eyitayo, described the chapter’s one-year milestone as a clear demonstration of its growing relevance, emphasising that both aviation and accounting thrive on precision, discipline and accountability.
She said the focus on digital transformation and governance is timely, as technology increasingly shapes both safety systems and financial management in the sector.
The event also featured the launch of a N500 million endowment fund and the cutting of the anniversary cake, a move stakeholders say will strengthen institutional capacity and support long-term professional development within the aviation industry.
Participants agreed that sustained investment in technology, stronger governance and continuous capacity building will be crucial to unlocking the full economic potential of Nigeria’s aviation sector and positioning it for safer, more efficient growth.
Reporting By Nosa Aituamen