The Managing Director/Chief Executive of Federal Airporkts Authotiy Of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku has stated that infrastructure deficiencies, regulatory frameworks, and financing requirements in the aviation sector should not be regarded as obstacles but opportunities waiting to be harnessed.
This is just as he also said that the challenges bedevelling the industry as potential investment
areas for investors.
According to her, “These should be perceived not as obstacles, but rather as opportunities. Each challenge facing our aviation sector represents a potential investment awaiting realisation. The forthcoming chapter of Nigerian aviation will be authored by those who recognise that our skies are not merely thoroughfares for aircraft. They are highways to prosperity. The inquiry is not whether to invest in Nigerian aviation, but rather how to engage in this transformative journey.”
Kuku said this while delivering a goodwill message at the launch of a book titled “100 Years Of Civil Aviation In Nigeria, History, Issues & Prospects” written by Wole Shadare in.Lagos
Shadare’s book, she pointed out provides stakeholders with a perspective to comprehend how far Nigeria’s aviation has advanced,.
She added that the book also x-ray the flight path ahead and that the commitment he has exhibited as a journalist is evident throughout his book is reason we are all convened here to celebrate.
She thanked the author for reminding stakeholders Nigeria’s modest beginnings and for portraying a vibrant vision of the future.
“As we delve into Nigeria’s aviation journey, we are not merely observing aircraft and runways. We are witnessing the evolution of a nation’s ambitions. From our colonial beginnings to our current status as West Africa’s largest aviation market, every milestone narrates a story of determination and opportunity.
“Nevertheless, this journey has not been devoid of turbulence. Upon Nigeria’s attainment of independence in 1960, we were faced with a pivotal question: How could we convert colonial-era infrastructure into a sovereign aviation powerhouse? Our national carrier, Nigeria Airways, emerged as a response. Yet, it soon faced challenges stemming from mismanagement and operational inefficiencies. By the early 2000s, we found ourselves at a crossroads, adapt or risk obsolescence.
“This juncture precipitated a remarkable transformation. The private sector took the initiative, introducing fresh capital, contemporary management practices, and a competitive spirit. Companies such as Air Peace and Arik Air did not merely fill the void. They revolutionized our aviation landscape. The current figures sum up this transformation; 39 certified airline operators, 31 airports nationwide, over 2,100 licensed pilots and a workforce comprising thousands, ranging from engineers to air traffic controllers.
“Nigeria has emerged as a testament to the efficacy of market-driven solutions. Our aviation sector now contributes approximately $1.7 billion to our GDP. Private airlines are connecting our cities with unprecedented efficiency, and international carriers increasingly regard Nigeria as a critical market. Last year, over 16 million passengers traversed our domestic terminals, while international passenger numbers exceeded 3.5 million.” she informed.
These figures, she pointed out are indeed impressive but that , there remains substantial potential for growth.
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