Repositioning Nigerian Aviation for Financial Capability and Economic Viability
Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, presented a strategic proposal to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) on Wednesday, emphasizing the need for better regulation and service in the nation’s aviation sector.
Speaking at the South-West Regional Air Transportation Summit (SWATS 2024) in Lagos, themed ‘Repositioning the Nigerian Aviation Industry for Financial Capability and Economic Viability,’ he addressed concerns over the underperformance of local airlines and frequent flight disruptions.
Buhari recommended that the NCAA restrict airlines with fewer than four aircraft to specific routes, ensuring they focus on manageable destinations and maintain service standards. He highlighted Overland’s successful operations with a small fleet, emphasizing the need for professionalism and efficiency. “If airline owners only have two planes and can travel to two destinations, please focus on those routes and be professional about it,” he advised.
He also encouraged Nigerians to adopt a stronger stance against poor airline service, suggesting that passengers consider legal action against operators in cases of service failures. “Nigerians have what is known as thick skin. Because no one wants to anger the airlines, we accept anything they throw at us. Until now, I have not seen a single person take an airline to court, even if he or she loses,” he remarked.
Tackling Rising Dissatisfaction in Nigerian Aviation
The senator’s proposals aim to address Nigeria’s rising global dissatisfaction ranking in the aviation sector, which currently stands at 70.5. He stressed that achieving improvement in domestic operations requires the NCAA’s active regulation to ensure better performance and satisfaction among Nigerian travelers.
Senator Abdulfatai Buhari’s recommendations underscore the urgent need for reform in Nigeria’s aviation industry. By promoting professionalism, enhancing regulatory oversight, and empowering passengers to demand accountability, these measures could pave the way for a more financially capable and economically viable sector.
With Nigeria’s aviation sector facing mounting challenges, Senator Buhari’s proposals highlight the importance of balancing operational efficiency with customer satisfaction. The success of such reforms will depend on the NCAA’s willingness to implement stricter regulations and the public’s readiness to hold airlines accountable for their actions.
