The Federal government has reaffirmed its commitment in facilitating Public Private Partnership in aviation sector growth
Permanent Secretary ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development Ibrahim Kana made this known in lagos at the just concluded Airport Business Summit and Expo ABSE .
Kana, noted that the aviation sector remains a critical enabler of economic growth and recognising this, the Nigeria government has made deliberate policy choices aimed at opening the sector to greater private sector involvement, thereby enhancing infrastructure boosting operational efficiency and world class services.
He stated that “Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency President Bola Tinubu, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering public private partnerships as a key mechanism for sustainable development.”
Kana noted that the ministry, in line with the infrastructure concession regulatory commission ICRC framework has championed a number of landmark PPP initiatives designed to reposition the industry .
These include the concession of terminal operations at major international airports, such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and kano as well as Build-operate- transfer BOT, models for cargo terminals, maintenance hangars and airport hotel infrastructure.
He stated that the ongoing PPP projects has recorded measurable progress.
“The successful concessioning of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two, MM2, remains a reference point for PPP success in West Africa”
He noted that the recent approval by the Federal government council of new Airport concession agreement underscores government’s resolve to crowd-in private capital, managerial expertise and technological innovation.
Kana stated that “Our engagement with international partners including the international civil aviation organisation ICAO, African Development Bank and private equity investors, has created new avenues for funding critical infrastructure without over burdening public finances.”
He stressed that the government is striving to provide the enabling environment for investment.
“We understand that PPP’s thrive where the environment is stable, transparent, and predictable.”
To this end, the ministry has worked closely with the Bureau of Public Enterprises BPE, and the ICRC to streamline procedures, de-risk investments, and ensure contractual clarity.”
“Our Airport Development master plan is aligned with national economic priorities and regional development goals. This has been complemented by legislative reforms, enhanced regulatory oversight through the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority NCAA and the upgrade of Aviation security and safety infrastructure, all of which build investor confidence”
The Permanent Secretary noted that looking ahead the journey is not over
He said “We are currently exploring PPP models for our navigation services, aerotropolis development and aerospace technology parks. We envision a future where Nigeria becomes a hub for regional air travel, maintenance repair and overhaul MRO, services and space science applications”.
He however invited potential investors to consider Nigeria, not just as a market, but as a long term partner in progress.
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