Industry Leaders to Chart Path for Aviation Hub Status at ASRTI Breakfast Meeting in Lagos
Stakeholders across Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem will gather in Lagos later this month to deliberate on strategies for transforming the country into a viable aviation hub capable of driving economic expansion and increasing its contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The forum, convened by the Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI), is scheduled to hold on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Golfview Hotels & Suites, as part of its first quarter Business Breakfast Meeting (BBM) for 2026.
Centred on the theme, “Boosting Aviation Sector Contribution to GDP: The Importance of an Aviation Hub,” the meeting is expected to stimulate robust discussions on how Nigeria can leverage its geographic advantage, population size, and market potential to emerge as a leading aviation gateway in Africa.
Participants will examine the broader economic implications of developing a functional aviation hub, including job creation, increased passenger and cargo traffic, and the stimulation of ancillary industries such as catering, fuelling, maintenance, and logistics.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, will present the lead paper, offering insights into infrastructure readiness, policy frameworks, and ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s airport system.
Her address is expected to underscore the importance of modern airport facilities, seamless passenger experience, and efficient regulatory oversight in attracting international airlines and positioning Nigeria as a preferred transit hub.
The Business Breakfast Meeting will feature two panel sessions, bringing together leading figures from airlines, airport operations, and aviation support services.
Among the panellists are Mr George Uriesi of Ibom Air, Dr Wale Babalakin of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, Captain Ado Sanusi of Aero Contractors, and Mr Djamel Muradov of Air France/KLM. These experts are expected to dissect the operational realities of airlines, including route profitability, fleet management, and collaboration among carriers.
The second panel will shift attention to allied aviation services, highlighting their critical role in sustaining the industry. Confirmed speakers include Dr Thomas Ogungbagbe of CITA Aviation Fuelling, Dr Segun Musa of Widescope International Group, Motayo Williams of Nigerbird Engineering Limited, Mr Damilola Ogunseye, Chairman of the International Airlines Operators Committee, and Dr Seinde Fademi, Chairman of NAHCO Plc and LSG Sky Chefs.
In addition, the Managing Directors of AVSATEL Communications and Dominion Air will contribute perspectives on communications infrastructure, aviation technology, and specialised operations that support the sector’s growth.
Over the years, ASRTI’s quarterly BBMs have evolved into influential platforms for shaping discourse and policy direction within Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Since their inception in 2015, the meetings have addressed a wide range of issues, including aviation safety, airport concessioning, airline management, infrastructure development, regulatory improvements, and passenger experience.
Through sustained engagement and advocacy, the initiative has played a role in fostering collaboration among stakeholders and promoting adherence to international standards.
The Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative remains a foremost not-for-profit body dedicated to advancing aviation safety and economic development in Nigeria. It brings together experienced professionals and organisations united by a shared commitment to excellence and global best practices.
As anticipation builds ahead of the March 26 gathering, industry watchers believe the meeting could generate practical recommendations for unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s aviation sector and strengthening its role as a catalyst for national economic growth.
