The International Airlines Association of Nigeria is advocating for stronger collaboration with the Federal Government to modernize airports, improve passenger services, and enhance safety, aiming to bolster the nation’s aviation value chain.

The Chairman of the Association’s Airline Operators Committee,
Damilola Ogunseye, stated that the group is prepared to support the government’s aviation reform agenda and expand partnerships across key sectors of the industry.

Ogunseye said, “The International Airline Association of Nigeria fully aligns with the government’s programmes, especially in the areas of infrastructure development, aviation policy reforms, tourism promotion, cargo development, and human capital development.

“We see strong opportunities to collaborate in airport modernisation, passenger facilitation, safety enhancement, and the overall improvement of the aviation value chain.”

He highlighted that the aviation reforms introduced by the 9th National Assembly under the leadership of Femi Gbajabiamila provided a solid foundation for transforming the sector.

Under Gbajabiamila’s tenure as Speaker, the National Assembly enacted the New Aviation Act (2022), a series of reforms that repealed obsolete regulations and modernized Nigeria’s aviation industry.

The legislation bolstered aviation safety and security, modernized airport management, improved airspace control and meteorological services, and advanced aviation training and accident investigation frameworks.

Ogunseye stated that the reforms improved regulatory oversight, brought Nigeria’s aviation framework in line with international standards, and boosted efficiency, safety, and service delivery throughout the sector.

He emphasized that international airlines remain committed to backing Nigeria’s goal of becoming a top aviation hub in Africa.

“We remain fully committed to working closely with your office, relevant ministries, departments, and agencies to improve connectivity, attract foreign investment, promote tourism, and strengthen Nigeria’s position in global air transport,” he said.

Ogunseye added that ongoing collaboration between operators and government agencies would fast-track airport upgrades, enhance passenger experience, raise safety standards, and unlock greater value across the aviation ecosystem.