2 months ago
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BY CHUKWUEMEKE IWELUNMO
For airlines to survive in the country, there must be inextricably linked to the strength and viability of the airports they rely on.
“Without thriving airports, there can be no thriving aviation industry. Airport viability, therefore, is not just a priority – it is a necessity for any ambitious aviation business”.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr Emmanuel Meribole made the assertion at the 9th Airport Business Summit and Expo in Lagos yesterday.
Meribole, representing the Minister, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, identified some of the challenges affecting airport viability and a thriving aviation industry.
According to him, creating a collaborative aviation ecosystem across all players is essential to achieve airport viability.
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Speaking on the role of airports in national and regional development, Meribole said: “Beyond their role in supporting aviation businesses, airports are vital drivers of national and regional economic development.
“Airports generate jobs, attract foreign investment, and contribute to tourism, trade, and business activities.
“For countries and regions looking to accelerate their economic growth, airports are key assets that must be nurtured and developed.
“By focusing on airport viability, we can unlock broader economic benefits, boost international competitiveness, and enhance connectivity in ways that go beyond the aviation industry.
“In this sense, airport viability is not just an aviation issue; it is a national economic imperative,” he said.
He also said: “Governments, airport authorities, airlines, regulators, and private sector investors must work together to align strategies and priorities.
“The role of the government, in particular, is to create an enabling environment that encourages innovation, competition and investment in the sector.
“This includes adopting policies that incentivise infrastructure development, streamlining regulatory processes, and ensuring airports have access to the financing and resources they need to thrive,” he said.
Meribole said that onlly one airport in Nigeria was viable contrary to the believe that three airports were.
According to the Permanent Secretary, the theme of the summit is very apt as it focuses on our shared vision for advancing the future of Aviation but is important for the survival of the aviation sector in Nigeria.
“Airports are the heartbeat of the aviation ecosystem. They serve as hubs of economic activity, connecting cities, regions and countries, while facilitating the movement of goods and people around the world.
“The success of airlines and other aviation businesses is inextricably linked to the strength and viability of the airports they rely on.
“Without thriving airports, there can be no thriving aviation industry. Airport viability, therefore, is not just a priority, it is a necessity for any ambitious aviation business,” he said.
Meribole said that to achieve a viability airport, some factors should be addressed, such as; sustainable financial models; operational efficiency and innovation; infrastructure development; public-private partnerships (PPPs); passenger experience and customer satisfaction; creating a collaborative aviation ecosystem.
He said that airport viability was indispensable in the pursuit of a successful aviation business ambition by recognising its significance and collectively committing to its enhancement.
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