Nigeria os seeking investors to bridge domestic airline capacity gap
Nigeria’s aviation industry is experiencing a surge in passenger demand, but a lack of domestic airline capacity is leading to rising airfares.
The Acting Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo stated this during a recent meeting with the President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Mr. Yinka Folami, and his executive council.
He highlighted the need for increased investment and technical expertise to bridge the capacity gap.
The NCAA boss emphasized the importance of attracting more investors to the domestic airline market, adding that, this would not only drive down fares but also encourage best practices and global competitiveness in Nigerian aviation. Captain Najomo commended NANTA for its ongoing support of the Federal Government’s efforts to modernize the aviation sector.
He acknowledged the challenges of leading the industry during this critical time and praised NANTA for its unwavering support for positive change.
“Our Minister has actively reached out to major aircraft manufacturers like Boeing, Embraer, and Airbus, this is to encourage their support for investors in the domestic air market, ultimately addressing the capacity issue and allowing more Nigerian airlines to compete on international routes.”
The meeting also addressed the issue of enforcement as Capt. Najomo reaffirmed the NCAA’s commitment to holding airlines accountable for any infractions.
He outlined plans to partner with sister regulatory agencies, like the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), to identify and penalize offenders according to established regulations.
In response to a request from NANTA’s immediate past president, Mrs. Susan Akporiaye, Capt. Najomo agreed to establish a Sector Monitoring Committee.
This committee will comprise representatives from the NCAA, FCCPC, and NANTA, and will work collaboratively to address challenges within the industry. NANTA President, Mr. Yinka Folami expressed its confidence in the NCAA’s leadership and operational efficiency. He pledged the association’s support for creating a fair and equitable operating environment within the sector.
Folami stressed the importance of aligning Nigerian aviation with global best practices and working together with the NCAA and other regulatory bodies to eliminate unethical practices.
