The Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, has declared that Nigerian airlines can not only survive but triumph on the fiercely competitive London route provided the nation rallies behind them with unity, strategy, and unwavering regulatory support.
Speaking at the inaugural lecture organised by SAPTCO Communications Ltd in Lagos on Wednesday, themed “International Aeropolitics: The Survival of Nigerian Carriers on the London Route”, Najomo said the topic touches the core of Nigeria’s aviation identity and global ambition.
“The London Route Is a Battlefield” — Najomo
Addressing aviation leaders, airline representatives, industry stakeholders, and members of the press, Najomo described international aeropolitics as a power-driven arena where national pride and strategic interests determine who thrives.
He said the London route, one of the world’s most lucrative corridors has long been dominated by foreign carriers despite its heavy reliance on Nigerian passengers. But the narrative, he noted, is finally shifting.
“Our carriers – as exemplified by Air Peace have stepped forward with courage”, he said. “Their presence on the London route is a declaration that Nigeria is ready to take its rightful place in the skies”.
Nigeria Ready to Compete Globally
Najomo acknowledged the hurdles facing Nigerian operators, including imbalanced bilateral agreements, high operating costs, and structural challenges. However, he emphasised that Nigeria’s resolve is stronger than the obstacles.
He affirmed that the NCAA will continue to uphold globally aligned, fair, and transparent regulations that maintain Nigeria’s strong ICAO safety and security ratings, giving local carriers a fair chance in international oversight.
“The NCAA stands firm in its commitment to protect Nigerian interests, advocate for fairness, and create an environment where our airlines do not merely survive, but thrive”, he stated.
A Collective Responsibility
The aviation regulator stressed that the success of Nigerian carriers cannot rest solely on one agency or airline. Instead, he called for a coordinated national effort involving government, regulators, airport authorities, diplomats, and private stakeholders.
“Nigeria has the talent. Nigeria has the market. And Nigeria has the spirit”, he said. “With determination and collective will, there is no global stage where Nigerian carriers cannot excel”.
Commendation for SAPTCO
Najomo praised SAPTCO Communications Ltd for creating a platform to address critical issues shaping the future of the sector. He noted that while international aeropolitics will continue to influence global aviation, Nigeria must engage as an assertive and strategic player, not a passive observer.
He concluded with a message of optimism: “The success of Nigerian carriers on the London route is not only possible but inevitable, as long as we continue to act with unity, determination, and clarity of purpose”.