CHUKS OKOH
The National president of the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professional (ANAP), Mr. Adedayo Alale has called for an urgent overhauling of Nigeria’s aviation sector, warning that the industry is currently lagging behind instead of progressing due to systemic operational challenges.
Speaking on the current state of aviation in the Country since independence, Mr. Alale highlighted critical areas requiring immediate attention, starting with the severe shortage of local Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities. He noted that Nigerian airlines are forced to perform routine maintenance checks, such as C-checks, abroad. This reliance on foreign facilities places a heavy strain on scarce foreign exchange and leaves aircraft grounded overseas for months at a time.
He emphasized that establishing world-class, local MRO facilities would keep maintenance operations domestic, save foreign currency, and establish Nigeria as a regional aviation hub.
In addition to maintenance deficits, Mr. Alale raised concerns over the exorbitant cost of Jet A1 aviation fuel, which has driven airfares beyond the reach of many Nigerians and reduced domestic flight frequencies across major routes like Port Harcourt, Kano, and Abuja.
He also criticized the issue of double taxation on airlines and called for an easing of excessive government interference in regulatory oversight. According to him, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) requires proper autonomy and support to effectively coordinate and enforce industry regulations.
Addressing safety and infrastructure, Mr. Alale pointed out that much of the equipment across Nigerian airports is outdated and suffering from poor maintenance and called for modernized facilities, upgraded navigation systems, and enhanced Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) to ensure flight safety.
Furthermore, he urged continuous training for specialized ground staff, such as the Airport Rescue and Firefighting Services (ARFFS), who are essential during emergencies but often lack advanced training beyond basic instruction.
To turn the sector around, Mr. Alale outlined key strategic solutions, including the adoption of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to modernize airport facilities and transform airports into thriving economic centers. He also advocated for expanding cargo operations by leveraging Nigeria’s vast agricultural sector, shifting focus toward non-aeronautical revenue streams to increase profitability.
Crucially, Mr. Alale urged industry leaders to place aviation workers at the core of sector development and stressed that prioritizing staff welfare through timely promotions, regular career progression, and continuous professional training is essential for fostering a motivated workforce capable of sustaining long-term growth and safety standards in Nigerian aviation.
