A newly released report has uncovered a staggering N120 billion revenue loss for Nigeria due to illegal private charter operations over the past decade.
The report, commissioned by Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and conducted by the Ministerial Task Force on Illegal Private Charter Operations, highlights widespread regulatory lapses, weak enforcement by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and security vulnerabilities crippling the sector.
According to the findings, major entities involved in charter operations include Arik Air Ltd, BUA International Limited, Dominion Air Limited, Executive Jets Services, Max Air Ltd, the Rivers State Government, Julius Berger Nig. Ltd, and Nestoil Plc.
To curb further losses, the task force has proposed several urgent reforms, including the immediate overhaul of the General Aviation Terminal in Abuja to address security lapses, repealing the controversial 22-year aircraft age limit, and strengthening NCAA’s oversight powers. A new licensing framework for air charter brokers is also in the works to enhance transparency and accountability.
However, not everyone is convinced. Aviation security expert John Ojikutu slammed the report, calling it “a waste of time” and blaming the NCAA for failing to enforce existing regulations. He also raised concerns about foreign-registered aircraft operating unchecked in Nigeria, alleging that powerful individuals are shielding illegal charter operators from scrutiny.
With the Nigerian aviation sector facing increasing scrutiny, the big question remains: Will the government finally crack down on illegal operations, or will these challenges continue to bleed the nation’s economy?
