Najomo Calls for Financial Reforms to Boost Aviation Growth

Stories by Chinedu Eze

The acting Director General, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, has urged stakeholders in the industry to prioritise strengthening financial frameworks, which according to him, is key in the growth of African aviation.

Speaking at the inaugural International Air Transport Conference organised by the World United Consumer Organisation in Abuja, Captain Najomo emphasised the theme, ‘Air Transport in Africa: Prospects and Challenges’, as a critical starting point for addressing the sector’s pressing issues.

Najomo identified key strategies like enhancing regional connectivity, fostering innovation, and building capacity for the sector’s growth. Collaborative efforts for sustainability are also essential to realising the industry’s full potential, according to Najomo.

Najomo pointed out that Africa’s aviation sector faces significant financial hurdles that hinder its growth.

“The perception of risk remains a significant barrier to investment in African aviation. We must establish regulatory frameworks that enhance transparency and predictability for financiers and lessors to operate confidently,” Najomo said.

He further emphasised fostering public-private partnerships to address challenges and unlock investment for infrastructure expansion across the continent, saying that improving regional connectivity is, therefore, a priority for driving intra-African trade and tourism.

“Initiatives like SAATM must be supported to reduce operational costs and improve access to underserved routes. This strategywould enable the seamless movement of people and goods, significantly boosting economic integration. Furthermore, it aligns with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).Promoting innovation and technology in the aviation sector is critical, Najomo continued, particularly as Africa aims to align with global standards. He encouraged stakeholders to adopt digitalised operations and green energy solutions to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

“From modernising systems to deploying eco-friendly technologies, innovation must be central to our long-term strategy,” he stated.