Nigeria's Airports Fail to Boost GDP, Says Iyayi

Roland Iyayi, the Managing Director/CEO of Topbrass Aviation and a member of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), addressed the challenges facing Nigeria's aviation industry during a panel discussion at the 30th annual conference of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC). He noted that Nigeria has 31 airports and approximately 91 airstrips, yet many do not contribute meaningfully to the GDP, which has remained around 0.6 percent.

Iyayi criticized the imposition of multiple taxes, fees, and charges on airlines, which he believes hinders industry growth, especially amid rising fuel and operational costs. He emphasized that several airstrips are located in economically promising areas but lack the necessary infrastructure for commercial operations.

Iyayi also pointed out the need for a review of the financial structure of aviation agencies, citing NAMA's historical expenditure patterns as unsustainable. He warned that the pressure to increase revenue could lead to detrimental charges imposed on stakeholders.