Nosa Aituamen
The Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has hailed the country’s aviation industry as one of Africa’s most promising markets, with a remarkable transformation from its colonial beginnings to its current status as West Africa’s largest aviation market.
Speaking at the launch of the book, “100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria,” in Lagos, Mrs. Kuku noted that Nigeria’s aviation journey is a story of determination and opportunity, marked by milestones that have shaped the nation’s ambitions.
From a single British aircraft landing in Kano in 1925 to hundreds of planes traversing the country’s skies daily, the industry has come a long way.
Despite facing challenges, including mismanagement and operational inefficiencies, the sector has undergone a remarkable transformation, driven by the private sector’s initiative and investment.
According to Mrs. Kuku, the emergence of airlines such as Air Peace and Arik Air has revolutionized the aviation landscape, with Nigeria now boasting 39 certified airline operators, 31 airports nationwide, over 2,100 licensed pilots, and a workforce of thousands.
Giving a breakdown of figures, the MD FAAN says, the aviation sector now contributes approximately $1.7 billion to Nigeria’s GDP, with private airlines connecting cities with unprecedented efficiency and international carriers regarding Nigeria as a critical market.
While in 2022, over 16 million passengers passed through domestic terminals, while international passenger numbers exceeded 3.5 million.
Mrs. Kuku emphasized that while challenges persist, they should be seen as opportunities for growth and investment.
She urged stakeholders to recognize the potential of Nigeria’s aviation sector and invest in its future, saying, “The forthcoming chapter of Nigerian aviation will be authored by those who recognize that our skies are not merely thoroughfares for aircraft, they are highways to prosperity.”
The MD/CE congratulated the author, Mr. Wole Shadare, on his book, which provides a comprehensive perspective on Nigeria’s aviation journey and a vision for the future.
She posed a challenge to stakeholders, asking, “Are we prepared to accept Mr. Shadare’s challenge? What investments are we willing to make to appropriately mold the future of Nigeria’s aviation sector?”
The book launch marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s aviation history, highlighting the sector’s progress and potential for growth.
As the industry continues to evolve, stakeholders are eager to see how Nigeria will navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.