The Nigerian Airline Operators (AON) have expressed gratitude towards the government’s dedication to promoting a better business environment for the Aviation industry. Even though the sector continues to struggle with various difficulties, especially following the COVID-19 crisis, the AON recognises the administration’s initiatives to facilitate business operations. These efforts are essential for revitalising and enhancing airline activities within Nigeria. When talking with the media after a delegation visit to Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, Allen Onyema, the Vice Chairman of AON, pointed out that, similar to other regions worldwide, the industry has faced considerable challenges.
Several challenges have faced the global aviation industry since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily because of supply chain issues and various associated obstacles. Nonetheless, the Nigerian government has attentively engaged with them and is striving to reinstate a more favourable business environment in aviation. Onyema, the Chairman of Air Peace, one of Nigeria’s major airlines, stated that discussions with the Vice President were productive. He characterised the meeting as a significant advancement, showcasing the administration’s efforts to streamline business processes and eliminate obstacles.
Smooth business processes will be ensured while eliminating obstacles.
Government backing has been commendable, and they are hopeful about the prospects of aviation in Nigeria. Also, airline operators seized the chance to highlight persistent issues regarding the various fees and levies affecting the industry, which have consistently hindered their operations. These expenses, comprising taxes and charges from several authorities, have escalated the cost of operating for airlines, thereby impacting the accessibility of Air Travel for passengers and constraining the competitiveness of Nigerian airlines internationally.
He expressed optimism that the government would implement essential measures to simplify these fees and ease the burden on airline operators. He is also hopeful that the government will address the various challenges they are encountering. They have been receptive to their concerns, and they trust that they will respond in a timely manner. The continual discussions demonstrate the government’s commitment to assist the sector. Onyema specifically acknowledged Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, for his contributions to the reform of the aviation industry.
Enhancing airline operations will boost Nigeria’s economy.
Furthermore, he admired Keyamo’s commitment and named his initiatives as groundbreaking, highlighting that the minister’s leadership has been essential in tackling several significant issues encountered by airline operators. Nigeria’s Economy heavily relies on the sector, which plays a crucial role in supporting travel both within the country and abroad, thereby aiding economic growth. Nevertheless, this industry has encountered substantial difficulties in recent times. Within Nigeria, these international issues have been intensified by poor infrastructure, elevated operational expenses, and a variety of regulatory obstacles.
Their emphasis on enhancing the business environment in the aviation industry is viewed as a pivotal step in tackling these issues. By working to simplify processes, minimise regulatory hurdles, and collaborate with industry players, the government intends to foster a more conducive atmosphere that empowers airlines to function more effectively and sustainably. The AON finds these initiatives encouraging, and the association is optimistic that the government will sustain its focus on the aviation industry’s needs.
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Although challenges remain, especially in terms of lowering fees, they remain hopeful about what lies ahead, owing to the government’s dedication to improving the business environment. If cooperation and backing from the government materialised, there is optimism that the aviation industry will bounce back completely from its difficulties and prosper in the years ahead. Onyema viewed the recent meeting with the Vice President as a constructive progression in the dialogue between the government and airline operators, with both sides dedicated to developing enduring solutions to the sector’s difficulties.