Nigeria's aviation sector outlook

The economic recession in Nigeria hammered numerous sectors in 2016, with the aviation industry arguably bearing the brunt of the downturn. Pekun Sowole, an Aviation lawyer at Jurislaw Legal Practitioners, shed light on the outlook for Nigeria's aviation sector in an interview with CNBC Africa. Sowole addressed the recent developments surrounding the Abuja airport's closure and the challenges facing the sector. The postponement of the shutdown of the Abuja airport highlights the pressing need for runway repairs but also raises questions about the efficiency of the repair process. Sowole suggested splitting the repair work among multiple contractors to expedite the process and minimize downtime. The critical issue of safety standards in Nigeria's aviation sector emerged during the discussion, with Sowole lauding the efforts of regulatory bodies like the NCA in upholding safety protocols. However, the soaring cost of the dollar presents a significant challenge for airlines, necessitating a reevaluation of flight pricing to ensure operational sustainability. The looming repairs at the Abuja airport and the potential diversion of flights to Kaduna sparked concerns about the capacity of alternative airports and the overall travel experience for passengers. Despite logistical obstacles and weather-related disruptions, Sowole urged passengers to assert their rights and seek compensation for flight delays or cancellations. He emphasized the importance of holding airlines accountable and leveraging legal avenues to safeguard consumer interests. The interview underscored the complex landscape of Nigeria's aviation sector, where a delicate balance between operational exigencies and passenger welfare must be maintained to navigate the turbulent skies ahead.