WTO and AFCAC Leaders Demand Urgent Aviation Reforms to Boost African Trade
The future of Nigeria's aviation industry has come under sharp focus following strong appeals from two influential global figures. Both the head of the World Trade Organization and the leader of the African Civil Aviation Commission have urged stakeholders to prioritise meaningful investments and policy changes that can transform air transport across the continent.
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who serves as Director General of the WTO, delivered a powerful address during a recent summit dedicated to aircraft acquisition and investment held in Lagos. She acknowledged the positive steps taken by both government bodies and private sector players to restore trust and attract funding into the sector. However, she emphasised that much deeper structural changes are required to fully harness the opportunities aviation presents.
The WTO chief pointed out that air transport plays a foundational role in global commerce. Goods that are high in value or sensitive to time constraints rely heavily on aviation, representing close to thirty percent of total world trade value despite occupying a relatively small share of cargo volume. This reality, she argued, makes a strong case for African nations to prioritise their air transport systems.
One of the most pressing concerns raised was Africa's inadequate air connectivity. Dr. Okonjo-Iweala highlighted that many flights between African cities still require layovers in Europe, driving up costs and undermining the competitiveness of regional trade. These inefficiencies have contributed to persistently low levels of intra-African commerce and have prevented Nigeria from reaching its potential. At present, the aviation sector contributes less than three billion US dollars to the national economy and provides employment for just over two hundred thousand people.
Rather than concentrating only on acquiring new aircraft, the WTO leader encouraged a more comprehensive approach. This includes upgrading airport infrastructure, navigation technology, and maintenance facilities. She also drew attention to the heavy tax burden on the industry, noting that charges in the region often exceed global standards. Reducing these fees could make air travel more affordable and competitive.
Consistency in government policy and clear regulatory frameworks, she added, are essential for attracting investors. Public-private partnerships emerged as a key mechanism for modernising the sector. Furthermore, she urged Nigeria to liberalise its air transport agreements and strengthen its participation in the Single African Air Transport Market. Doing so would position the country as a vital export hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Ms. Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary General of AFCAC, echoed many of these sentiments. She stressed that aviation must no longer be viewed as a privilege for the few but rather as an essential service that promotes inclusion and connectivity across the continent. She praised Nigeria's ongoing efforts to rebuild its aviation landscape and noted the country's leadership role in pushing for greater integration within African airspace.
Adeyemi shared encouraging figures from recent continental initiatives. Over the past three years, more than one hundred and twenty new flight routes have been introduced, boosting connectivity and facilitating over one hundred and thirteen million passenger journeys. These developments have had a meaningful impact on employment and economic output across participating nations.
Yet challenges remain. Airfares in Africa are among the highest in the world, creating a significant barrier to growth and accessibility. The AFCAC Secretary General called on all stakeholders to work together in addressing this issue. She also announced plans for a major air transport development conference in Lomé, Togo, which will tackle concerns around market access, affordability, and capacity building.
For professionals across Africa's travel industry, these developments signal both opportunity and urgency. A more connected continent will open doors for tourism, trade, and economic growth, but realising this vision will require sustained commitment from governments, investors, and the private sector alike.
