Privatization of Nigeria's Airports is an Economic Necessity

Dr. Richard Aisuebeogun, the former Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, declared that the privatization and commercialization of Nigeria's airports is an economic necessity. Speaking at the 2026 Airport Business Summit and Expo at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, he argued that private sector investment is crucial for developing world-class airport infrastructure and unlocking the aviation industry's revenue potential.

Aisuebeogun presented a paper titled "Airport Concession: The Inevitable," emphasizing that reliance on public funding is no longer viable. He noted that globally, governments are increasingly turning to private investors to modernize airport facilities and improve operational efficiency.

He highlighted that successful concession models in Europe and the Middle East have shown that commercially managed airports are more efficient and financially sustainable. Aisuebeogun stressed that airport concessionaires take on financial and operational risks, which incentivizes them to enhance service delivery and passenger experience, ultimately driving airport profitability through increased passenger traffic.