VIEWPOINT IS ON THE NEED TO RESCUE NIGERIA’S AVIATION SECTOR FROM TURBULENT TIMES. IT IS WRITTEN BY HON. FEMI ADEBISI, A MEDIA CONSULTANT AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS ANALYST
On Sunday, the twenty sixth of this month, a united Nigeria airlines flight enroute Abuja, accidentally landed in Asaba, Delta state without any communication to the passengers onboard of any change of plan.
Also, recently, there have been cases of aircrafts that have crashed landed including one involving the minister of power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu in Ibadan.
The incidents not only highlighted safety concerns but also underscored the deeper, systemic issues plaguing the aviation industry.
A critical challenge faced by domestic airlines is the inability to access foreign exchange through the central bank of Nigeria, CBN. This has resulted to scarcity of jet fuel and leaving airlines struggling to meet financial obligations, including payments of salaries.
The CBN, should therefore grant enabling airline operators to access foreign exchange for maintenance and operations.
The absence of a coherent air transport policy has left the sector with no goals and aims. A robust policy framework is urgently required to guide the industry’s development, encompassing regulations, safety standards and strategies to attract foreign direct investment.
Airports across the country languish with obsolete facilities, poor maintenance, and this jeopardizes both safety and efficiency.
To remedy this, the government must invest in upgrading of the nation’s airports to meet international standards, which will provide a seamless travel experience for passengers.
Lax security measures at airports expose them to various criminal activities.
The government must therefore, fortify security protocols, enhance surveillance systems, and provide comprehensive training and resources for security personnel to restore confidence in air travelers.
Corruption and political interference have cast a dark shadow over the sector, hindering effective regulation and impeding growth. To counter this, independent regulatory bodies must be established, anti-corruption measures strictly enforced, and a culture of accountability promoted.
To salvage Nigeria’s aviation sector, immediate actions are imperative.
In conclusion, Nigeria stands at the precipice of a critical moment in its aviation history. Swift, decisive action can transform the sector into one that is safer, more efficient, and poised for prosperity.
The time for reform is now, and the collective efforts of all stakeholders will determine whether Nigeria’s aviation sector will soar to new heights or remain grounded in crisis.
