The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, has declared Nigeria one of Africa’s most promising aviation markets, urging investors to take advantage of emerging opportunities across the sector.
Speaking at the Nigeria Aircraft Acquisition and Investment Summit, Kuku said Nigeria’s strong population base, economic diversity, and strategic geographic position place it at the centre of aviation growth in West and Central Africa.
She noted that despite global disruptions such as pandemics and economic headwinds, Nigeria’s aviation sector has remained resilient, with improving passenger load factors, route recoveries, and new connections under consideration.
“Nigeria is one of the most compelling aviation markets on the continent”, she said, adding that long-term investors should focus on the country’s solid fundamentals rather than short-term uncertainties.
Kuku reaffirmed the federal hovernment’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for aviation investments through infrastructure modernisation, enhanced safety and security, and policies that attract private capital.
According to her, FAAN is aligning with national aviation goals by upgrading airport infrastructure, improving regulatory compliance, and supporting local airlines in fleet expansion efforts.
She emphasised that airports are no longer just transit points but evolving into investment platforms with opportunities spanning aeronautical services, commercial real estate, cargo logistics, hospitality, and maintenance facilities.
“These investments will not only improve passenger experience but also reduce airline operating costs, create jobs, and enhance the overall viability of aviation projects”, she stated.
The FAAN Managing Director highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at boosting investor confidence, including infrastructure upgrades, streamlined operational processes, transparent pricing frameworks, and strengthened safety systems.
She also underscored the importance of partnerships with financial institutions, leasing firms, and development finance organisations to support aircraft acquisition and broader aviation development.
On regional integration, Kuku pointed to opportunities arising from the African Continental Free Trade Area and the Single African Air Transport Market, noting that Nigeria is well-positioned to serve as a key gateway for intra-African and international air travel.
She described the summit as a critical platform for aligning stakeholders, addressing industry challenges, and developing sustainable, bankable solutions for the sector.
Calling for deeper collaboration, Kuku stressed that FAAN views investors, airlines, and financiers as partners rather than mere stakeholders.
“If there are pain points, we want to understand them. If there are bankable ideas, we want to help unlock them”, she said.
She concluded by reaffirming that Nigeria’s aviation market is resilient and growing, government reforms are ongoing, and now is the right time for investors to position for the next phase of industry expansion.