The Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI) has called for a deliberate shift towards developing a world-class aviation hub in Nigeria as a catalyst for economic growth, infrastructure development, and increased global connectivity.
Delivering the welcome address at the 2026 first quarter Business Breakfast Meeting, ASRTI President, Air Commodore Ademola Onitiju (Rtd), underscored the critical role of aviation in national development while highlighting the urgent need for strategic reforms to unlock the sector’s full potential.
Onitiju described ASRTI as a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation comprising seasoned aviation professionals committed to advancing knowledge and policy advocacy within the industry. He noted that the forum serves as a platform for engaging key stakeholders on pressing issues affecting the aviation ecosystem.
Citing data from the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Onitiju revealed that Nigeria’s aviation sector contributes between $1.7 billion and $2.5 billion annually to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), while supporting over 216,000 jobs across direct, indirect, and induced channels. Additionally, aviation-linked tourism contributes approximately $454.1 million to GDP.
Despite these contributions, he noted that the sector continues to grapple with infrastructure deficits, rising operational costs, and other systemic challenges that limit its growth trajectory.
He further disclosed that air transport activities in Nigeria remain heavily concentrated in major cities, with Lagos accounting for 29 per cent, Abuja 32 per cent, and Port Harcourt 10.6 per cent—collectively contributing over 70 per cent of the sector’s GDP impact. Passenger traffic figures stand at over 16 million domestic travellers and more than 3.5 million international passengers annually.
The ASRTI President explained that the theme of the meeting centred on the importance of developing an aviation hub to enhance the sector’s contribution to GDP. According to him, the initiative is aimed at fostering policy dialogue and generating actionable strategies for sustainable growth.
He commended ongoing efforts by aviation sector leaders, particularly the planned refurbishment of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), describing it as a bold and timely intervention.
Onitiju stated that the meeting was convened to complement such initiatives through constructive engagement, policy critique, and expert recommendations. He added that the gathering brought together a diverse group of industry leaders to provide insights that would shape the future of aviation governance in Nigeria.
Outlining ASRTI’s expectations, Onitiju expressed optimism for the transformation of MMIA into a regional and global hub capable of handling up to 30 million passengers annually, connecting over 50 airlines to more than 100 cities worldwide.
He emphasised the need for an airport that seamlessly integrates efficiency, advanced technology, and superior passenger experience, alongside a strong commitment to maintenance, innovation, and expansion.
The ASRTI also advocated the adoption of an open skies policy to attract more international airlines, improve competition, and enhance connectivity across global routes.
Reiterating the organisation’s long-standing positions, Onitiju called for deliberate human capital development through strengthened aviation training institutions and policies designed to attract global talent.
He further stressed the importance of creating a business-friendly environment characterised by reduced taxes, transparent regulations, and strategic investments in airport infrastructure. According to him, incentivising airlines and providing soft loans for aviation-related enterprises would stimulate innovation and growth.
Onitiju also highlighted the need for greater adoption of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in funding aviation infrastructure, noting that collaboration between government and the private sector remains the most viable path to sustainable development.
Call for Sustainable Aviation Practices
In addition, ASRTI urged stakeholders to prioritise environmentally sustainable practices, including the adoption of green aviation technologies, sustainable fuels, and eco-friendly airport designs.
Onitiju concluded by reaffirming ASRTI’s commitment to fostering dialogue that will drive strategic vision, strengthen institutions, and position Nigeria’s aviation sector as a key driver of economic growth.
The 2026 Q1 Business Breakfast Meeting, he said, is expected to generate a “robust coalition of ideas” capable of shaping policies and delivering tangible improvements across the aviation landscape.
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