RismadarVoice Reporters
September 17, 2026
Nigeria’s aviation industry is facing mounting financial and operational pressures, with high aviation fuel prices, foreign exchange exposure, accumulated debts and inadequate airport infrastructure identified among the major challenges confronting domestic airlines.
Aviation industry practitioner Basil Agboarumi, writing on the competitiveness of the sector, said more than 100 Nigerian airlines had ceased operations over the past four decades, highlighting the difficult environment in which local carriers operate.
Fuel remains one of the industry’s biggest expenses, accounting for an estimated 35 to 40 per cent of airline revenue. Aircraft leasing, maintenance, spare parts and insurance also expose operators to foreign currency costs while most domestic revenues are earned in naira.
Heavy aircraft maintenance presents another challenge, as Nigerian carriers frequently send aircraft abroad for major checks because of limited local maintenance capacity.
AIRLINES, AVIATION AGENCIES FACE DEBT PRESSURE
Financial obligations across the industry have also become a source of concern.
Domestic airlines reportedly owe billions of naira to aviation agencies and ground-handling companies for regulatory, airport, navigation and operational services.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has responded to persistent indebtedness by tightening enforcement against airlines with outstanding statutory obligations.
Industry stakeholders have argued that automated remittance systems and structured debt-resolution arrangements could improve accountability while reducing the accumulation of unpaid obligations.
INFRASTRUCTURE, TAXES ADD TO PRESSURE
Airline operators have also repeatedly complained about multiple charges imposed by aviation agencies, while regulators maintain that statutory charges are required to fund safety oversight and essential aviation services.
Airport capacity remains another concern, particularly at major hubs in Lagos and Abuja.
Proposals for improving the sector include modernising airport terminals, developing local Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facilities, expanding cargo infrastructure and attracting private investment through public-private partnerships.
Despite the industry’s economic difficulties, Nigeria has recorded improvements in aviation safety oversight in recent years.
Industry stakeholders say maintaining those safety gains while addressing operating costs, infrastructure deficiencies, financial transparency and regulatory challenges will be crucial to making Nigerian aviation more competitive internationally.
