Nigeria’s aviation sector is Africa’s most under-exploited market — Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s aviation sector remains one of the most viable and under-exploited markets in Africa, calling on local and international investors to take advantage of the vast opportunities in the industry.

The President made the declaration at the opening of the 2025 FAAN National Aviation Conference (FNAC) in Lagos, where he was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.

President Tinubu said the fundamentals of Nigeria’s aviation industry place it at the centre of Africa’s future growth in air transport, noting that “there has never been a better time than now” to invest in the sector.

In a statement by special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga, Tinubu emphasised that the market was supported by an expanding population, rising travel demand, and the country’s unique geographical position.

“The opportunities abound because Nigeria’s aviation industry remains one of the most viable and under-exploited markets in Africa. With over 220 million people, a strategic geographic position, fast-growing travel demand, and a $1.7 trillion AfCFTA-driven regional market, this sector offers real, ready, and bankable opportunities for investors,” the President said.

He identified cargo operations, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, aircraft leasing, charter operations, and aviation-linked real estate as areas ripe for investment.