X-Raying Nigeria’s Aviation Sector Since Independence

Nigeria’s aviation industry began in the 1930s with the establishment of the first airlines and airmail services.
Over the years, the sector has shown resilience and adaptability through various challenges, including economic fluctuations and safety concerns before and after independence.
According to aviation experts, ongoing investment in infrastructure, safety, and service quality remains essential for the sustainable development while the industry continues to grow.
They say that the aviation sector in Nigeria has undergone significant transformation since the country gained independence in 1960.
Mr Abdulmalik Jibreel, Manager, Inter Governmental Affairs, Charter and Business Development, Aero Contractors, Abuja, provided insights.
He said that the British colonial administration played a significant role, with companies like West African Airways Limited (WAAL) and later British Airways operating in the region.
“After gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria established its national carrier, Nigeria Airways, in 1959, which became the principal airline, connecting Nigeria to international destinations.
“The government started investing in the aviation infrastructure, including airports and air traffic control systems.
“From1980s to 1990s, the aviation sector experienced significant challenges due to mismanagement and economic instability during this period.
“In the late 1980s, Nigeria began to deregulate its airline industry, leading to an influx of private airlines.
“However, many of these airlines struggled due to poor infrastructure and competition.”
Jibreel said by 2000s, the Nigerian Government undertook reforms to improve safety and service quality by the establishment of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in 2006 to help regulate and supervise the industry effectively.
He said several airlines were liquidated or merged during the time to consolidate the industry.
According to Jibreel, from 2010 to the present, the aviation sector has seen gradual improvements in infrastructure, with upgrades to several airports and the introduction of modern aircraft.
He said the impact of global economic conditions, including the COVID-19 pandemic, affected operations in the industry.
“Current Airlines are: Air Peace, Arik Air, Dana Air, Ezeworld Airlines, Green Africa Airways, Ibom Air, Max Air, Overland Airways, United Nigeria Airlines, Air Nigeria (previously known as Virgin Nigeria), Arik Air, Allied Air and Aero Contractors.
“Defunct Airlines are; Nigeria Airways – the former national carrier ceased operations in 2003, Chanchangi Airlines – Operated from 1994 until its closure in 2009, Bellview Airlines – ceased operations in 2009 and Eagle Airlines – went out of business in the 2000s.
“Also, Bristow Helicopters – although still operational in some capacities, it has significantly reduced its services; Air Nigeria ceased operations in 2012, First Nation Airways ceased operations in 2016 and Medview Airlines – while still listed, the airline has had significant operational issues,’’ he said.
He said the list of airlines reflected a dynamic landscape, showcasing both successful operations and the hurdles faced in maintaining viable services.
Meanwhile, Group Capt. John Ojikutu, the former Commandant of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, said the country was just building infrastructure without growth.
“How old after its creation was the Nigeria Airways before it got defunct? How many airlines have we had that equally have got defunct? What has been their total passenger’s traffic in 20 years?
“How many airports, federal, states and private have we had and what is their total passenger’s traffic in 20 years compared to our contemporaries in Africa?
“Check how many ministers and how many management heads the ministries and agencies had in the last 20 years and you will know that no progress nor growth can be achieved with such incessant changes,’’ he said.
Nevertheless, Mr Obafemi Bajomo, Special Adviser on Foreign Direct Investment to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, said that the Minister, Mr Festus Keyamo , had a vision to advance Nigeria’s aviation sector to be a regional hub.
According to him, Keyamo’s vision involves a fundamental shift toward a modern, globally compliant, private-sector-driven industry that serves as a regional hub for trade and economic development.
“His policy actions are designed to correct decades of underperformance and build a sustainable aviation ecosystem for the future.
“He observed that the industry was plagued by inefficiency, safety concerns, and a host of complaints from both operators and passengers.
“He noted that facilities, such as the 1979-era Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, were dilapidated with leaking roofs and outdated equipment.
“He found a need for stronger adherence to international standards and for addressing issues like illegal charter operations.
“The minister observed that foreign exchange volatility created problems, with significant airline funds trapped in Nigeria, eroding international confidence.
“To address these issues, Keyamo unveiled a 5-point agenda to reposition Nigeria’s aviation industry; his actions, based on his assessment, include: improved compliance, enhanced insurance policy, increased safety standards, consumer protection and anti-corruption measures.”
According to him, the government has boosted compliance with the Cape Town Convention, increasing Nigeria’s score from 49 per cent to 70.5 per cent which has restored investor confidence and is expected to lead to lower airfares.
He said the minister unveiled a new policy that blended global standards with local requirements, making Nigeria a more attractive environment for aircraft financiers and lessors.
Najomo said that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) revalidated all airline operators to ensure compliance with stringent global safety protocols.
He said a new consumer protection portal was launched to strengthen passenger rights and improve accountability.
Najomo said Keyamo had taken steps to eliminate illegal charter operations, working with the National Security Adviser (NSA) to ensure a more compliant environment.
On infrastructure development, Najomo said that plans were underway to renovate the dilapidated old terminal of MMIA in Lagos and build a new, modern structure.
“A second runway is being constructed at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja to boost efficiency.
“The government plans to concession airports to attract private-sector investment for further upgrades.
“The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) headquarters was relocated from Abuja to Lagos to cut costs,” he added.
He said Keyamo mediated the release of trapped funds for international airlines and negotiated Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASA), leading to resumed flights and expanded routes.
According to him, keyamo has supported the development of indigenous Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, such as XeJet’s in Abuja, to reduce reliance on foreign services and attract investment.
Stakeholders say that 65 years after independence, Nigeria`s aviation sector remains a work in progress; in spite of challenges, the industry has shown resilience and potential.
They say with concerted efforts, Nigeria can unlock its aviation potential, connect more people and businesses globally, and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic diversification. (NANFeature)