BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to revitalising Nigeria’s aviation industry by embracing strategic partnerships with private investors.
Speaking at the Nigerian Aviation Centre (NiGAV) in Lagos, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, said the country is taking bold steps to modernise airport infrastructure and elevate service delivery through well-structured Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).
Dr. Kana noted that aviation remains a vital engine for economic growth, connecting people, boosting trade, attracting investment, and supporting tourism.
“We believe the private sector has a critical role to play in helping us build a world-class aviation industry. That’s why we are creating room for collaboration—to upgrade our airports, improve efficiency, and ensure passengers enjoy better experiences,” he said.
He explained that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government has taken deliberate steps to open the sector to private investment, not just in theory but through concrete action.
He highlighted the concessioning of major terminals in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano, as well as the adoption of Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) models for cargo terminals, aircraft maintenance hangars, and airport hotel projects.
One of the most prominent examples of this approach is the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal II (MM2), which stands today as a leading model for PPP success across West Africa. Dr. Kana revealed that the Federal Executive Council has recently approved a new round of airport concession agreements, signaling the government’s firm resolve to attract private capital, technical know-how, and innovation to the sector.
He also shared that Nigeria’s aviation reform drive has gained traction with global institutions such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the African Development Bank (AfDB), and various private equity firms, all of whom are helping to fund new infrastructure without stretching the country’s public finances.
To make these partnerships viable, Dr. Kana said the Ministry is working hand-in-hand with key agencies including the Federal Ministry of Finance, the Bureau of Public Enterprises, and the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission to create an investor-friendly environment.
This includes simplifying procedures, reducing investment risks, and ensuring clear, enforceable contracts.
Dr. Kana pointed to the Ministry’s Airport Development Master Plan, which aligns with national economic goals and regional development plans.
He also cited ongoing reforms in aviation laws, improved oversight by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and enhanced airport safety and security systems as part of efforts to build investor confidence.
He said the government is already exploring PPP opportunities in air navigation services, airport city (aerotropolis) development, and aerospace technology parks.
According to him, the vision is to position Nigeria not only as a key player in regional air transport, but also as a centre for aircraft maintenance and even space-related technologies.
Dr. Kana invited both Nigerian and foreign investors to see the country not just as a place to do business, but as a long-term strategic partner.
“Nigeria is open for business, and we are open to partnership. This journey is just beginning, and the opportunities ahead are immense,” he said.
He also noted the Ministry’s commitment to keeping Nigeria’s skies safe, its infrastructure resilient, and its collaborations fruitful. With the private sector as a committed partner, he said, the future of Nigerian aviation looks promising, ready to rise to new heights and deliver far-reaching benefits to the nation.
