VP Shettima assures airline operators of improved working conditions

Signing of CTC Practice Directions will transform Nigeria into Africa’s economic powerhouse – Onyema

By Kunle Sanni

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to improving the operating environment for airlines in Nigeria’s aviation sector. This pledge follows the recent signing of the Cape Town Convention (CTC) Practice Directions.

Shettima described the signing of the CTC Practice Directions as a key milestone in enhancing business operations within Nigeria’s aviation industry. He highlighted the government’s determination to improve the ease of doing business in the sector.

The Vice President made these remarks on Tuesday during a meeting with stakeholders from the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The meeting, according to a statement by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, focused on resolving issues related to foreign exchange, the backlog of payments with the Central Bank of Nigeria, and the National Hajj Commission, in conjunction with the airline operators.

Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema spoke on the delicate nature of airline operations, noting that “Airlines are vulnerable, and minor setbacks can push an airline out of the market.”

He emphasized the importance of continued governmental support for the aviation sector to ensure sustainability and growth, citing global practices where airlines are backed to bolster the economy. “This is not elitism,” Onyema stated, highlighting the broader economic implications.

Onyema praised the federal government’s bold decision to sign the CTC Practice Directions, emphasizing its transformative potential. “What you did on Thursday is going to open up this country to become an economic powerhouse,” he said, noting that the decision would enable Nigerian airlines to increase their connectivity across Africa.

“Within Nigeria itself, you have empowered the nation with this single action. The ease of doing business in the aviation sector is returning,” Onyema added.

He also called for additional support measures, suggesting that the Central Bank of Nigeria provide airlines with special provisions to help navigate current economic challenges.

Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Special Adviser to the President on PEBEC & Investment, described the meeting as productive, as the government explores further steps to enhance Nigeria’s business environment. She noted that continued engagement with aviation stakeholders would be essential in addressing challenges and creating a conducive environment for increased investment and better service delivery.

The meeting was also attended by Alhaji Abdulmunaf Yunusa, Chairman of Azman Airline; Mrs. Ejiro Eghagha, Head of Finance at Air Peace; Dr. Blaise Ijebor, Director of Risk Management at the Central Bank of Nigeria; and representatives from the National Hajj Commission, among others.