The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made significant strides in transforming Nigeria’s aviation sector, with a strong emphasis on capacity building for local airlines and infrastructure development. As his first tenure approaches its conclusion, key achievements in the industry have been highlighted.
In a recent discussion, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, showcased the government’s dedication to aviation improvements, detailing a commitment of N712.3 billion towards the reconstruction and modernization of Terminal 1 at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA). This terminal serves as Nigeria’s major gateway, responsible for over 60 percent of the nation’s air traffic. Current reports indicate that the project is over 50 percent completed, funded through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund without incurring new external debts.
Keyamo noted similar investments, including N46 billion allocated for resurfacing the runway at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport and a complete remodel of its domestic terminal. Additionally, a new Hajj terminal was inaugurated in July 2026, and the Muhammadu Buhari Airport in Maiduguri was upgraded to full international status in collaboration with the Borno State Government.
In 2024, the government plans to initiate a new airport project in Abia State while also enhancing the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri. The domestic terminal at Benin Airport has also undergone significant rehabilitation, now supporting night-flight operations.
The Minister reported that Nigeria achieved a remarkable safety compliance score of 91.45 percent in a 2026 audit by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), exceeding both the global and regional averages.
He further highlighted the recent clearance of over $800 million in trapped funds belonging to foreign airlines in Nigeria, which had caused operational challenges. This effort culminated in being removed from the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) list of countries with blocked aviation funds.
The Tinubu administration also engaged in high-level negotiations that enabled Emirates to resume its flights to Nigeria after a prior suspension due to diplomatic issues. A new Bilateral Air Service Agreement was established, restoring connectivity for passengers and cargo.
Lastly, significant regulatory changes have improved the country’s position in global aviation, including revisions to lease agreement enforcement that led to a higher compliance score, allowing local carriers better access to aircraft leases.
