Nigeria’s aviation sector is facing significant challenges as key agencies like the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) struggle under the burden of a 50% revenue remittance policy. This policy has raised concerns among stakeholders about the ability of these agencies to maintain and upgrade critical infrastructure necessary for safe air travel.
The 50% revenue deduction has been criticized for hampering the agencies’ ability to cover recurrent and capital expenditures. NAMA, in particular, has highlighted the urgent need for funds to replace obsolete surveillance systems and other critical safety equipment.
Stakeholders in the aviation industry, including the National President of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) and aviation experts, have called for the exemption of these agencies from the remittance policy. They argue that the financial strain is compromising safety and could lead to a decline in service quality, ultimately impacting Nigeria’s reputation in global aviation.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has acknowledged the concerns and assured that safety remains a top priority. Efforts are being made to explore alternative funding sources and seek exemptions from the TSA policy for the aviation agencies. However, the situation remains critical, with calls for urgent government intervention to ensure the sustainability and safety of Nigeria’s air transport sector.
News Editor 
Hyelsinta Hassan