Akin Olateru Advocates for Aviation Sector Growth in Nigeria

Akin Olateru, the Chief Executive Officer of Omni Blu Aviation Limited, discussed the critical need for industry expertise and management skills to sustain the aviation business in Nigeria. He highlighted the importance of engaging investors and the necessity for a balanced perspective on the aviation ecosystem.

Olateru pointed out that the government should provide financial guarantees and access to cheaper funding, such as loans at single-digit interest rates from institutions like Exim Bank, AfDB, and the World Bank, to support airlines. He stressed that this support should not be viewed as a bailout but as a means to facilitate growth in the aviation sector.

Olateru also noted the importance of understanding the complexities of the aviation business, which requires a blend of technical knowledge and practical experience. He called for a team of experts to design programs that would enhance the sector's contribution to Nigeria's GDP, emphasizing that the aviation industry is interwoven with various economic factors.