Nigeria’s aviation industry is set for a major investment drive as the Federal Government moves to establish aerotropolises across key cities while convening global aircraft lessors, financiers, and airline operators for strategic business engagements in the country.
The engagement is themed Aircraft Acquisition and Investment Summit. Speaking through a video on Sunday ahead of the summit, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Michael Achimugu, described 2026 as a turning point for the industry.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, is part of efforts to reposition Nigeria as West Africa’s aviation hub and unlock long-term financing opportunities for domestic airline operators.
Achimugu said, “Remember when I said 2026 would be the best year ever for Nigeria’s aviation industry? The time has come. We are bringing the biggest global players; aircraft lessors, banks, financiers, and investors to sit directly with Nigerian operators and businesses within the aviation ecosystem.”
The summit is expected to attract leading aircraft leasing companies, international financial institutions, and aviation investors seeking entry into Nigeria’s fast-growing air transport market.
In 2025, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, led a delegation to the Airline Economics Growth Frontiers Global Conference in Dublin, Republic of Ireland. The engagement formed part of broader government efforts to reposition the country’s aviation sector through global partnerships and investment opportunities.
The conference, which attracts major aircraft leasing companies, international financiers, airline executives, and aviation policymakers, offered Nigeria a strategic opportunity to interact directly with global industry stakeholders.
Discussions focused on fleet renewal, improved access to competitive aircraft financing, and developing sustainable operational models capable of strengthening Nigerian airlines over the long term.
According to Keyamo, the gathering follows months of negotiations with international aviation brands interested in expanding operations into Nigeria.
He said, “I reported back to Mr President and Nigerians that discussions were ongoing with major global aviation brands eager to do business here. Nigeria remains one of the most viable aviation markets in the world, and many investors have been asking for an opportunity to come in.”
He explained that the government’s role is to create a credible platform where foreign investors and local operators can engage directly, negotiate partnerships, and unlock financing solutions for aircraft acquisition.
“Whether you are already operating in aviation or seeking to enter the industry, this is your opportunity to sit face-to-face with investors,” the minister added.
Achimugu also said that beyond aircraft financing, the summit signals the commencement of the minister’s dream of a model that integrates airports with commercial cities, logistics hubs, and industrial clusters.
The NCAA publicist said the initiative will transform major airports into economic centres capable of driving trade, tourism, cargo operations, and job creation. “This also signalled the beginning of the minister’s dream of the establishment of aerotropolises in major cities in the country.”
Achimugu further stated that when the plans eventually pull through, “It means that we will begin to see modern leased aircraft entering Nigeria. That naturally leads to reduced airfare, reduced flight disruptions, and improved passenger experience.”
