President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has highlighted areas investors could explore in aviation to plough their resources for good returns urging players in the air travel ecosystem to imbibe collaboration especially with operators in the private sector.

To make Nigeria the preferred destination for aviation investment, Tinubu said the Federal Government has already on track the simplification of regulatory procedures, promotion of transparency, and offering incentives in areas such as airport infrastructure, aircraft leasing, maintenance, and training.

Tinubu disclosed this while declaring open the 2025 FAAN NATIONAL AVIATION CONFERENCE (FNAC), in Lagos.

He was represented by the Secretary of the Government of the Federation ( SGF), Mr George Akume.

Tinubu said : “We are also working on fiscal reforms that will ensure clarity and lend its hand to overall investment and policy coherence. Opportunities abound because Nigeria’s aviation industry remains one of the most viable and under-exploited markets in Africa for several reasons.

“Over 220 million people and the largest domestic aviation market on the continent. Strategic geographic location, ideal for trans-African and intercontinental linkages.

“Growing middle class and travel demand which is expected to double within a decade. A $1.7 trillion regional market, driven by AfCFTA, that depends heavily on efficient air logistics. Massive unmet demand in cargo, MRO, leasing, charter services, and aviation-linked real estate.

These are not abstract possibilities, they are real market opportunities ready for investors.”

The President said the government has been working on fiscal reforms that will ensure clarity and lend its hand to overall investment and policy coherence.

Describing the 2025 FAAN National Aviation Conference (FNAC), an annual convergence that has become the major incubator for ideas, innovation, collaboration and investment opportunities in aviation ecosystem, Tinubu said the focus of the government is to transform the aviation into a critical engine for national national growth and global competitiveness in a manner that drivers job creation, prosperity and wealth.

He said: “The aviation industry remains one of the most technologically advanced industries in the world and it is still growing in its vital role of connecting people and markets, driving tourism and trade as well as supporting countless jobs across sectors.

“Within the continent of Africa air transport bridges distance, promotes trade, tourism, enhances territorial security, supports food security, humanitarian services, maintenance of peace and fosters unity. Therefore, every runway built, every terminal modernized, and every policy reform implemented contributes directly to regional, sub-regional and national progress.

Nigeria is a vast country that is geographically located as a regional hub for connectivity. This has informed the policy direction, investment in infrastructure, systems, capabilities and human capital development.”

Highlighting the flagship program of the administration, the Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu said significant strides have been achieved over the past two years in the area of infrastructure.

He said : “ We have embarked on the Commissioning of new international terminals in Lagos and Port Harcourt, boosting capacity and service quality. Major rehabilitation works in Abuja, Enugu, Kano, and other airports to meet global safety and efficiency requirements.

Strengthening of regulatory oversight, with enhanced collaboration between NCAA, ICAO, IATA, and NCAT to elevate industry standards. Expansion of cargo, hangar, and MRO facilities in Lagos and Kano to position Nigeria as West Africa’s logistics and aircraft-maintenance hub.

Development of frameworks for a national carrier, guided by transparency, sustainability, and global best practice.

“ These interventions are building blocks for a modern aviation ecosystem anchored on efficiency, private sector investment, safety, and international competitiveness. Government can not shoulder these responsibilities alone but shall continue to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. The aviation sector in Nigeria is part of the global systems as it must comply with prescribed standards and practices. This dictates that Nigeria must continue to open the windows of opportunity for investment, partnership, and global engagement

Tinubu charged participants and industry players to consider emerging frontiers, where the next wave of growth will come from.

These , Tinubu said include : “ Aviation Cargo and Agro-Export Corridors involving dedicated cargo terminals in Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Makurdi, integration with Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones and cold-chain infrastructure for perishables

“Expansion of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) infrastructure aimed at reducing aircraft maintenance capital flight, attracting global MRO players to partner with local investors.

Development of Smart & Green Airports involving renewable energy integration; digital passenger management, E-gates, biometrics, and AI-driven security systems

Aviation Training & Human Capital which involves upgrading of the NCAT which has been decentralised for access, forging of new training partnerships and development of modular training hubs for pilots, ATCs, and aircraft engineer.

These emerging areas align directly with the government’s economic diversification, growth and and job-creation goals.

“ This administration shall remain focused on safety, efficiency, and sustainability in the sector. We also renew our commitment to implementing Civil Aviation Policy reforms, embracing renewable energy solutions for airport operations, and developing smart, secure, and customer-friendly terminals.

“Together , government, private sector, and international partners, we can build a safer, stronger, and more globally connected industry. While not compromising standards, safety and security, our policies shall continue to be investment friendly and the interest of critical stakeholders shall remain paramount. Let your discussion chart the way forward.”

Speaking at the conference, Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo- Olu canvassed collaboration between FAAN and the Centre of Excellence in driving the growth of multi – modal transportation system saying the airport planned for the Lekki corridor has received approval from the Federal Government.

Sanwo – Olu said the proposed airport, for which the State Government is seeking funding for will add to the economic development of the state and de-congest pressure on the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja.

The Lagos Governor, said the proposed airport will handle five million passengers annually, with capacity for Airbus 380 aircraft .

He said : “ We will continue to pursue our drive to achieve a coordinated implementation of a single vision mobility system.We are seeking opportunities to develop aviation for overall economic development”

Sanwo- Olu said the State Government is seeking private sector players to develop air transport infrastructure.

He said : “ The Lagos State Government and Ogun State will work together to develop the supply chain of aviation logistics, eCommerce , logistic parks and others areas .We will put in place the governance structure to make it work secure the right partnership and push for the right pillars to achieve the economic strategy of an integrated hub.”

Sanwo – Olu praised Tinubu for his strides at repositioning the aviation sector through airport infrastructure upgrade and renovation “

Chairman of FAAN Board, and former National Chairman of APC, Dr, Umaru Abdullahi Ganduje commended FAAN for the conference , describing it as a platform to draw investment to the sector.

Ganduje praised Tinubu for his achievement in the aviation sector for the last two years.

On his part,Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo said Nigeria is making significant efforts to reposition the aviation sector. He called for action and partnership to drive the agenda of the government to fix the sector.

Keyamo was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Kana.

Governors of Borno and Imo States, Prof. Babagana Zulum and Hope Uzodimma highlighted investment opportunities in aviation in their jurisdictions.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun said the state is making giant strides in the aviation sector with the airport it just completed .

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Engineer Noimat Salako – Oyedele , Abiondun said the state is open to partnership to drive its infrastructural development.

While welcoming guests, Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku said the conference provides opportunity to seek investment in infrastructure, operations and engagement in technology.

Mrs Kuku said : “ So, to the investor community, I pose this question: Will you help us build the future? We are offering concrete pathways. Investment in Infrastructure: The gap between our current capacity and projected demand is your opportunity in terminal modernisation, cargo facilities, and airport cities.Partnership in Operations: We seek global expertise in management, ground handling, and logistics—partner with us to enhance efficiency and share in the profitability of a growing market.

“ Global Engagement in Technology: From bio metrics to sustainable solutions, invest in the future of African travel with us. The fundamentals are undeniable: Africa’s largest population, a growing economy, and a strategic geographic position. The demand is here. Growth is inevitable. The only question is, who will have the foresight to be in the cockpit with us?

“To truly ascend, we need all hands on deck. This is why I make a direct appeal to our valued unions: embrace this new era of collaboration. Your understanding and partnership are the bedrock upon which we will build. The private investment we seek is not a replacement for our workforce; it is the catalyst for its growth. It will create better facilities, more advanced systems, and ultimately, more and better jobs for Nigerians. Let us work together with a shared vision to welcome the capital that will secure our collective.”