The global representative body of the airline industry, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), has reported that it has had successful and constructive high-level talks with senior officials in the aviation sector in Nigeria. Further, IATA welcomed commitments made by Nigerian officials during those discussions.

IATA regional VP Africa and Middle East Kamil Al Awadhi met with Nigerian Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister Festus Keyamo. Al Awadhi urged the new Nigerian administration (in office since the end of May) to continue, indeed strengthen, consultations with the aviation sector, to develop solutions to issues of concern for airlines operating in, or to, the country. In particular, they discussed the issue of blocked airline funds, which, at the end of last month, totalled $783-million in Nigeria. IATA’s aim was that the Nigerian government and the industry work together to develop both short- and long-term solutions to the issue of foreign exchange access for both Nigerian and international airlines.

“Safety, security and efficient infrastructure are critical for a well-functioning air transport system. So is the ability of airlines to have access to the revenues they generate in Africa,” highlighted Al Awadhi. “These priorities are among the key elements addressed under IATA’s Focus Africa initiative, to strengthen aviation’s contribution to Africa’s economic and social development. Nigeria’s focus on these issues reinforces their position among the leaders of African aviation.”

Al Awadhi also met with Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) CEO/MD Kabir Yusuf Mohammed. These talks centred on Lagos’ Murtala Muhammad International Airport; about which a number of IATA-member airlines had, over the past 12 months, raised concerns about safety, security and passenger service levels.

Mohammed committed FAAN to dealing with these issues within 12 months. A corrective action plan would be expedited to ensure that the required improvements in the areas of concern would be made, in the time promised.

“We welcome FAAN’s commitment to upgrade Lagos airport,” affirmed Al Awadhi. “It is the main domestic and international hub connecting Nigeria with the rest of Africa and beyond and needs to keep up with demand. This strategic focus not only enhances the aviation sector but also serves as a catalyst for Nigeria’s broader economic and social advancement. IATA stands ready to support FAAN with expertise to ensure international standards are met through the corrective action plan.”