The Federal Government has outlined a structured pathway for priority investment that is expected to attract private capital and reinforce Nigeria’s aviation position. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, shared the message during the FAAN National Aviation Conference (FNAC) 2025 in Lagos.
Kana said Nigeria offers one of Africa’s strongest aviation markets, with clear openings supported by regulatory improvements, policy stability, and targeted infrastructure upgrades. He stressed that the administration has created viable frameworks for priority investment, encouraging long-term private sector participation and reducing historical risks in the aviation sector.
He explained that Nigeria’s investment priorities are no longer ambiguous. Instead, they are now structured, commercially viable, and aligned with global aviation financing standards. This strategic approach ensures that all priority investment areas are transparent and capable of delivering measurable returns, positioning the country for deeper partnerships across infrastructure, maintenance, aviation finance, and logistics.
The Minister’s representative identified several areas designed to deliver long-term value for investors. The first is airport infrastructure modernisation across the country. Government-backed funding is helping Nigeria upgrade terminals, rehabilitate runways, expand airport footprints, and develop new cargo complexes. He emphasised that these projects represent a key priority investment for those looking to partner with FAAN.
Kana noted that many of these projects will be delivered transparently through public-private partnership structures that guarantee accountability and operational efficiency. He described these reforms as central to the government’s aviation transformation agenda and core to its priority investment strategy.
He highlighted the creation of a regional Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility as another high-value priority investment area. African airlines spend millions annually on offshore maintenance. FAAN is positioned to establish a world-class MRO hub that will serve West and Central Africa, retain capital in the region, and support high-skill employment.
Low-cost building development was also identified as a priority investment opportunity. Kana said such initiatives will reduce construction costs, expand infrastructure delivery, and allow the aviation economy to retain greater local value, making these projects highly attractive to private investors.
Aviation leasing companies were similarly highlighted. Nigeria’s improved legal and financial frameworks now support indigenous leasing firms. This priority investment avenue allows local firms to deepen aviation finance and support fleet modernisation across Nigerian carriers.
Cargo and logistics hubs remain one of the most promising priority investment sectors. Nigeria’s agriculture and manufacturing outputs require efficient export channels and reliable logistics. FAAN’s planned hubs will unlock agro-export potential, reduce post-harvest losses, and integrate Nigerian producers into global supply chains.
Priority Investment Opportunities in FAAN
The Minister highlighted four strategic areas under FAAN’s priority investment roadmap:
Airport Infrastructure Modernisation
FAAN is modernising terminals, rehabilitating runways, expanding aprons, and developing new cargo complexes. Kana said several of these projects are ready for transparent PPP delivery that guarantees viability and investor returns.
A World-Class MRO Hub
Africa loses billions annually to offshore aircraft maintenance. FAAN is positioned to establish a regional MRO centre to serve West and Central Africa, cut costs, retain capital, and generate high-skill jobs.
Aviation Leasing Companies
Nigeria’s improved legal protection for aviation financing makes this the right moment for indigenous leasing firms. This opportunity deepens aviation finance and supports fleet renewal.
Cargo and Logistics Hubs
Nigeria’s agricultural and manufacturing capacity requires stronger export systems. FAAN’s cargo and logistics hubs will open global markets for Nigerian producers and reduce spoilage.
Kana said these opportunities are actionable, not theoretical. FAAN will present investors with data, timelines, and structured business cases throughout the conference. He emphasised that Nigeria has moved from problem-spotting to solution-building, backed by clear regulatory guidance and a strengthening operating environment.
He encouraged investors to explore the priority investment opportunities and partner with FAAN to transform Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem. He concluded: “FNAC 2025 is an inflexion point. Together, we are shaping the future, and the future begins now.”
