Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative
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In the news

Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative in the press since 2012: 141 stories. Each one opens on the publisher's site.

2026

ThisDay · 25 September 2026 · News report
Aviation Stakeholders Identify Nigeria as Most Competitive Market in Africa
With foreign carriers taking over 90% of Nigeria's international traffic, Ohunayo said the market is fiercely competitive, urged government to empower local airlines, and objected to a foreign partner of a Nigerian airline seeking Abuja access too.
Olumide Ohunayo
THISDAYLIVE · 11 September 2026 · News report
Shortage of Technical Personnel in Aviation Industry
The Sun Nigeria · 10 September 2026 · News report
ATSSSAN, ASRTI commend FG for clearing ex-Nigeria Airways workers’ wages
Aviation Line · 9 September 2026 · Press release
ASRTI commends FG for addressing delay payment benefits of ex staff of liquidated Nigeria Airways
Follow-up release in which ASRTI welcomed government action on long-overdue Nigeria Airways retirement benefits and asked for swift payment to remaining living ex-workers and families of the deceased.
Ademola Onitiju
The Nation Newspaper · 9 September 2026 · News report
ASRTI applauds government’s intervention on ex-Nigeria Airways workers’ payments
Vanguard News · 29 August 2026 · News report
NIGERIA AIRWAYS: ASRTI urges Keyamo, Finance Ministry to release ex-workers’ entitlement
ThisDay · 28 August 2026 · News report
AMCON Justifies Sale of Arik Air Aircraft as Shareholders Kick
As AMCON defended selling Arik aircraft, Ohunayo said the takeover was once welcomed but poor communication with owners and government inaction had eroded Arik's assets, and AMCON should withdraw.
Olumide Ohunayo
Tribune Online · 27 August 2026 · News report
ASRTI demands payment of Nigeria Airways workers’ entitlements
Nigerian Flight Deck · 25 August 2026 · Press release
Nigeria Airways Workers: ASRTI Demands Urgent Payment, Condemns Tragic Losses
ASRTI demanded release of approved entitlements for over 4,000 ex-Nigeria Airways staff, noting beneficiaries dying while waiting, and asked Keyamo to work with the finance minister and hold delaying officials accountable.
Ademola Onitiju
Independent Newspaper Nigeria · 25 August 2026 · News report
ASRTI Demands Payment for Over 4,000 Ex-Nigeria Airways Workers as Hundreds Die Waiting for Entitlements
The Sun Nigeria · 25 August 2026 · News report
Aviation Roundtable urges FG to pay 4,000 Nigeria Airways ex-workers
The Guardian Nigeria News · 24 August 2026 · News report
ASRTI demands release of ex-airways workers’ benefits
Businessday NG · 24 August 2026 · News report
Aviation Safety group urges immediate payment for defunct Nigeria Airways workers, laments loss of lives
Nigerian Tribune · 19 August 2026 · News report
Recurring aviation labour crises threaten passenger, aircraft lessor confidence
After union action against Air Peace disrupted about 70 flights, stakeholders including ASRTI's president warned repeated labour crises erode passenger and lessor confidence, and called for firmer dispute resolution and treating runway blockades as a safety matter.
Ademola Onitiju
Nigerian Flight Deck · 11 August 2026 · News report
Labour Action: ASRTI Condemns Air Peace Picketing as More Airlines Suspend Flights
ASRTI denounced union picketing of Air Peace over unremitted ticket and cargo sales charges as selective, said debt recovery is government's job, and urged talks under the minister's mediation as Enugu Air and United Nigeria halted flights.
Ademola Onitiju
Aviation Monitor · 20 July 2026 · News report
Should Flight Dispatchers Be Type Rated On Aircraft In Nigeria?
At FLIDAN's 2026 conference, Nwuba's paper, read by ASRTI general secretary Ohunayo, noted about 1,500 licensed dispatchers but under 500 jobs and urged restoring type ratings; NCAA said it would study the idea.
Alexander Nwuba · Olumide Ohunayo
Vanguard · 20 July 2026 · News report
NCAA, experts clash over 5% air ticket charge
On a bill to redistribute the 5% ticket and cargo charge, Onitiju backed raising NAMA's share to 40% and cutting NCAA's to 40%, while arguing NCAA needs extra government funding to meet ICAO obligations.
Ademola Onitiju
ThisDay · 12 June 2026 · News report
Addressing Cost of Airline Operations in Nigeria
Responding to IATA's criticism of Nigeria's operating costs, Ohunayo called for a national aviation plan, incentives and tax waivers for carriers, a stop to licensing tiny-fleet airlines, and a flat ticket charge replacing the 5% levy.
Olumide Ohunayo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 27 May 2026 · News report
Nigeria Aviation Debt Crisis: Why 30% Waiver Fails, FFSP Offers Relief
Explains ASRTI's Fuel-for-Stability Programme as an alternative to the proposed 30% airline debt waiver, arguing Jet A1 cost is the root problem and should be tackled via local refiners and crude allocation.
Arise News · 29 April 2026 · Interview
Onitiju: Aviation Fuel Price Caps Not Best Solution Nor Sustainable, But May Prevent Airline Shutdown
In an Arise interview, Onitiju said capping Jet A1 prices is unsustainable in a deregulated market but could avert airline shutdowns, and urged structured reforms, institutional consultation and seasoned professionals in the ministry.
Ademola Onitiju
Nigerian Flight Deck · 28 April 2026 · Press release
Aviation Sector Solutions: ASRTI Pushes Urgent System-Wide Rescue Plan
Detailed account of ASRTI's 27 April 2026 letter to the President: a non-subsidy fuel price correction, conditional liquidity support, debt plans, independent review of charges and a 'Fly Nigeria' growth push.
Ademola Onitiju · Olumide Ohunayo
Radio Nigeria Lagos · 28 April 2026 · TV or radio
ASRTI Calls for Urgent Intervention to Prevent Aviation Sector Collapse
ASRTI's open letter described an aviation emergency driven by Jet A1 prices far above global benchmarks, and sought a temporary pricing fix, short-term airline support, tighter oversight and reform of charges.
Ademola Onitiju · Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 3 April 2026 · News report
Why Nigeria Lags Behind in Aviation Development
Analysis drawing on ASRTI's Q1 2026 breakfast meeting and communique, where FAAN's Kuku, Aero's Ado Sanusi and Ibom Air's George Uriesi argued Lagos could become a hub with investment, consistent policy and strong home carriers.
Aviation Metric · 26 March 2026 · News report
ASRT wants conducive business environment, low tax, charges for sector growth
At ASRTI's first 2026 breakfast meeting, Onitiju sought lower taxes and tariffs, clear rules, airport investment, airline incentives and soft loans, backed PPPs for infrastructure and voiced hope for the refurbished Lagos terminal.
Ademola Onitiju
Nigerian Flight Deck · 26 March 2026 · News report
Investor Frustration Mounts as FAAN Pushes Reform Amid Policy Uncertainty
At ASRTI's Q1 2026 breakfast meeting on aviation's GDP contribution, FAAN's Kuku said stop-start concessions erode investor confidence and FAAN now retains more revenue for infrastructure.
Ademola Onitiju · Adeola Yesufu
MSME Africa · 21 March 2026 · News report
Aviation Leaders Converge in Lagos to Chart Nigeria's Path to Hub Status
Preview of an ASRTI-convened Lagos meeting on 26 March 2026 on making Nigeria an aviation hub, with FAAN's Olubunmi Kuku as lead presenter and George Uriesi, Wale Babalakin and Ado Sanusi expected.
ThisDay · 20 March 2026 · News report
Experts: Nigeria Air Travel Growth Stagnant in the Last Ten Years
Feature on a decade of flat passenger numbers; Ohunayo blamed hostile economic policies and insecurity, which deter travel and raise insurance costs, while others cited fares and weak route development.
Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 23 January 2026 · News report
Domestic Air Traffic Disruption in 2026
Outlook warning of pre-election disruption to domestic flying in 2026; Ohunayo urged separating regulation from airline operations, transit facilities at major airports, a stronger consumer protection unit and prosecution of unruly passengers.
Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 16 January 2026 · News report
Despite Improved Rating with Lessors, Nigerian Airlines Still Pay Outrageous Aircraft Insurance Premium
Ohunayo said IDERA compliance fixed the aircraft-repossession risk but exchange rates and the country's security rating still keep premiums high, and stronger independent institutions are needed to lower insurance costs.
Olumide Ohunayo

2025

Arise News · 30 November 2025 · Interview
Alex Nwuba: Nigeria Must Reimagine Aviation, Crippling Costs Are Pushing Ticket Prices Higher
In an Arise interview, Nwuba said taxes, charges, fuel prices and expensive finance are driving up fares and straining airlines, and argued the sector needs structural reinvention or operators and passengers will keep paying.
Alexander Nwuba
ThisDay · 28 November 2025 · News report
Experts Lament Short Life Span of Nigerian Airlines as Arik Air Heads Towards Extinction
Ohunayo said AMCON's initial rescue of Arik was sensible but its prolonged hands-on control led to poor decisions and asset sales; it should have hired professional managers and focused on recovering debts.
Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 31 October 2025 · News report
Fly Nigeria Act: Stakeholders Blame Government Officials for Non-implementation
Ohunayo recalled nearly two decades of failed attempts at a Fly Nigeria policy, including a cabinet rejection seen as favouring one airline owner, and backed the minister's renewed push for officials to use Nigerian carriers.
Olumide Ohunayo
Aviation Monitor · 29 October 2025 · Press release
Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative Celebrates Nigeria's Civil Aviation @ 100
ASRTI announced it would mark 100 years of Nigerian civil aviation with the aviation ministry at a 1 December 2025 Abuja event with panels and an honours night, and invited states to hold their own celebrations.
Ademola Onitiju · Albinus Chiedu
Leadership · August 2025 · News report
Cross-Border Trading: Stakeholder Urges Travel Agents To Seek FG's Intervention
Ohunayo urged NANTA to present a position paper on cross-border ticket sales to NCAA and National Assembly aviation committees, and said government should act where laws are broken or fares manipulated.
Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 4 April 2025 · News report
Experts Optimistic Fly Nigeria Act Will Empower Nigerian Carriers, Reduce Capital Flight
Ohunayo backed the proposed Fly Nigeria Act, saying local carriers' small foreign footprint makes it timely and that steering government-funded travel to them would keep public money, jobs and investment at home.
Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 27 March 2025 · News report
Low Disposable Income Threatens Domestic Airline Operations, as Passenger Traffic Plummets
As domestic traffic fell, Ohunayo said weaker incomes were only part of the story, blaming policy gaps and thin schedules at airports like Calabar, and proposed licensing rules that allow smaller aircraft on more city pairs.
Olumide Ohunayo
ch-aviation · 5 March 2025 · News report
Spotlight falls on Nigeria's aircraft age policy
The group urged review of Nigeria's 22-year aircraft age limit, saying it makes most airports unviable; Nwuba blamed it for capacity shortages, stressed NCAA effectiveness and suggested ministry training funds educate legislators.
Alexander Nwuba
Aviation Monitor · 28 February 2025 · News report
ASRTI Tasks NCAA On Review Of Aircraft Certification Process, Manpower
At an aviation ministry stakeholder engagement, ASRTI's Nwuba urged review of aircraft certification and workforce shortages, and raised aircraft age rules, career progression, fares, airport hours and training institutions.
Alexander Nwuba
ThisDay · 24 February 2025 · News report
Stakeholders Highlight Benefits of Second Airport in Lagos
On Lagos State's planned Lekki airport, Ohunayo said it would complement rather than hurt Murtala Muhammed Airport and force better service, and suggested Ogun State's airport faced more competitive pressure.
Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 7 February 2025 · News report
Concerns Mount over Shabby Treatment of Nigerian Visa Applicants by South Africa Embassy
Report on complaints about South Africa's visa handling in Nigeria; Ohunayo said refusals are longstanding and help South African Airways, and urged Nigeria to apply leverage such as trade measures or Lagos landing slots.
Olumide Ohunayo
Aviation Monitor · 1 February 2025 · Opinion
AM EDITORIAL: Let Us Have More Professional Industry Engagements
Editorial urging more regular industry forums, crediting ASRTI with starting the Lagos stakeholder talks on Cape Town Convention practice directions and urging airlines and agencies to attend its quarterly breakfast meetings.
ThisDay · 31 January 2025 · News report
Stakeholders Raise Concern over Unending Rising Cost of Building Elusive Second Runway at Abuja Airport
On the soaring N528 billion estimate for Abuja's second runway, Ohunayo accepted some inflation-driven variation but called the figure excessive, said the existing runway is underused and suggested FAAN buy aircraft-recovery equipment instead.
Olumide Ohunayo
The Sun · 10 January 2025 · News report
Cape Town Convention rules under scrutiny for imbalance
Drawing on ASRTI's Lagos breakfast meeting on the Cape Town Convention, the report notes worries the court practice direction favours lessors; Onitiju welcomed it, while Nwuba wanted arbitration addressed before cases reach the high court.
Ademola Onitiju · Alexander Nwuba
Nigerian Tribune · 6 January 2025 · News report
Ten years running without aviation boards
Feature on six aviation agencies operating without governing boards; Ohunayo said the boards are overdue, blamed their absence for unilateral decisions and interference, and urged President Tinubu to constitute them.
Olumide Ohunayo

2024

The Guardian (Nigeria) · 29 November 2024 · News report
Aviation stakeholders seek special interventions to rescue local airlines
At an ASRTI business breakfast, Onitiju called for cheaper loans and fuel, a two-year pause on some taxes and charges, quick constitution of agency boards and protection of local carriers from Open Skies and AfCFTA pressures.
Ademola Onitiju
African Business Travel · 11 November 2024 · Press release
ASRTI BBM Q3 to examine implications of CTC practice direction on airlines, economy
Preview of ASRTI's Q3 2024 breakfast meeting on 28 November at Golfview Hotel, Ikeja, examining the Cape Town Convention practice direction's effect on airlines and the economy, with Keyamo as keynote speaker.
Albinus Chiedu · Ademola Onitiju
ThisDay · 18 October 2024 · News report
H1 2024: Economic Turmoil Stagnates Nigeria Air Passenger Traffic
On flat first-half 2024 passenger numbers, Ohunayo said reduced seat supply raised fares while squeezed middle-class budgets left seats unsold, and argued that relaxing the aircraft age limit would let operators serve thinner routes.
Olumide Ohunayo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 4 September 2024 · News report
ASRTI Urges FAAN to Enhance Safety, Passenger Comfort at Airports
At a courtesy meeting with FAAN chief Olubunmi Kuku, ASRTI pressed for SLA compliance, facilities for disabled passengers, control of concessionaires and duty-free sales, and action on rats at Lagos' new terminal.
Ademola Onitiju
ThisDay · 31 August 2024 · News report
One year of Aviation under Keyamo
ThisDay's anniversary review; Ohunayo credited Keyamo with a 'Nigeria first' approach that draws investment and backs Nigerian carriers designated on international routes.
Olumide Ohunayo
BusinessDay · 29 August 2024 · News report
How Keyamo transformed aviation sector in one year
One-year review of Keyamo's tenure; Ohunayo said the minister had done well in places, urged him to attract investors to partner domestic airlines via better governance and rates, and to review his record with industry.
Olumide Ohunayo
Leadership (via AllAfrica) · 31 July 2024 · News report
Nigeria: $2.5m Debt - Local Airfare May Increase As Federal Govt Grounds Arik Air
After Arik Air aircraft were grounded over a $2.5 million debt, Ohunayo warned capacity would shrink and fares rise, and urged Arik, its creditor and the ministry to negotiate so the airline could keep flying.
Olumide Ohunayo
Leadership · 8 July 2024 · News report
Racketeering...Air Passengers Lament As Touts Take Over Ticketing
On touts controlling airport ticketing, Ojikutu proposed CAPPS passenger screening approved by NCAA, ticket sales outside terminals, and barring unscreened passengers at access control.
John Ojikutu
African Business Travel · 23 June 2024 · News report
Ogungbangbe to chair LAAC 28th Conference, Caulcrick, Nwuba, others speak
Previews of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents' 28th conference on 26 July 2024 in Ikeja on aviation survival in a harsh economy, listing ASRTI's second vice president Nwuba among paper presenters.
Alexander Nwuba
Aviation Monitor · 3 May 2024 · News report
PHOTOS From ART Quarter 1 2024 BBM
Photo gallery from ASRTI's Q1 2024 breakfast meeting on 2 May 2024 at Golfview Hotel, Lagos, which focused on aviation manpower, training, succession planning and human capital.
Nigerian Flight Deck · 2 May 2024 · News report
ASRTI Calls for Autonomy, Governing Boards for Nigerian Aviation Agencies
At ASRTI's Q1 2024 breakfast meeting at Golfview Hotel, Onitiju argued agency boards and NCAA autonomy would shield policy from political pressure, and asked government to review or temporarily waive levies to ease rising airfares.
Ademola Onitiju
Nigerian Flight Deck · 25 April 2024 · Press release
ASRTI Denounces Minister's Interference in NCAA Functions
ASRTI condemned Keyamo's directive suspending Dana Air as intruding on NCAA's statutory role, urged NCAA and NSIB to finish their MD-82 probes, praised suspension of three charter operators and pressed for agency boards.
Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 26 January 2024 · News report
Much Ado About FAAN Relocation to Lagos
On FAAN's headquarters move to Lagos, Ohunayo said it should have been done quietly since most staff already worked there, and called the publicity and northern politicians' threats needless.
Olumide Ohunayo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 16 January 2024 · Press release
ASRTI Urges Overhaul of NCARs Part 9 for Air Operator Certification Enhancement
ASRTI asked for amendment of NCARs Part 9 to create a scheduled-operator licence for carriers up to 100 seats, with fee exemptions and tax holidays to attract new and low-cost entrants.
Olumide Ohunayo
Leadership (via AllAfrica) · 15 January 2024 · News report
Stakeholders Criticise Aviation Minister Over Bloated Directorates
Stakeholders faulted Keyamo's creation of dozens of new agency directorates; Ohunayo warned the extra posts would drain agency finances, while the minister's office said they would plug revenue leaks.
Olumide Ohunayo
Leadership · January 2024 · News report
NCAA Not Relocating Headquarters To Lagos - Acting DG
As NCAA denied moving its head office, Ohunayo said the minister should prioritise airport facilities, longer hours, runway lighting and tower repairs, and that any relocation be gradual, costed and partial.
Olumide Ohunayo
Leadership · 2024 · News report
NCAA To Clampdown On Private Jets Operating Commercially
Report on NCAA's crackdown on illegal charter flights; Ohunayo criticised moving FAAN's headquarters to Lagos and said the minister should focus on facility quality and efficiency.
Olumide Ohunayo
Leadership · 2024 · News report
More Foreign Airlines Lower Lagos-London Route Fares
Ohunayo credited Air Peace's London entry with cutting fares, urged reliable schedules, certifications and beyond-London partnerships, and said ministry and agencies must jointly counter foreign carriers' political pressure.
Olumide Ohunayo

2023

Aviation Line · 11 December 2023 · News report
Nigeria warned against 2005,2006 repeating itself
At an ASRTI breakfast meeting in Lagos, Ojikutu warned current practices risk a return to the deadly crashes of 2005–2006, criticised non-specialist ministers and NCAT's decline, and urged designating Nigerian airlines as flag carriers.
John Ojikutu
Aviation Monitor · 9 December 2023 · News report
Aviation Stakeholders Advocate Review Of Charges, Taxes, Tariffs, Policy Advocacy
At ASRTI's Q3 2023 breakfast meeting in Ikeja, tax reform committee chair Taiwo Oyedele and NCAA, NAGAFF and Asaba airport voices called for harmonising overlapping aviation levies that hurt competitiveness and push cargo to neighbouring countries.
NigerianEye · 29 August 2023 · News report
Aviation Roadmap: Be careful of 'landmines', 'booby traps'— Experts caution Keyamo
As Keyamo took office, Ohunayo advised caution, urging review of agreements signed over the previous eight years and a legal team to resolve disputed concessions so genuine investors would come in.
Olumide Ohunayo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 20 July 2023 · Communiqué coverage
Again ASRTI calls for foreign airlines' restriction to either Lagos, Abuja
ASRTI's 39-point Q2 2023 communique renewed its demand to limit foreign airlines to Lagos or Abuja plus one secondary point, and urged BASA review, reciprocity, airline mergers and readiness for SAATM and AfCFTA.
Nigerian Flight Deck · 17 July 2023 · News report
'Do not compromise NCAA's autonomy,' ASRTI tells regulator
At ASRTI's Q2 2023 meeting, participants urged restoration of the regulator's autonomy and digitisation of its processes; Senator Adede said NCAA had ceded powers back to the ministry despite the Civil Aviation Act.
Musa Adede
African Business Travel · 12 July 2023 · News report
Onyema frowns at blaming airlines for flight delays, cancellations
At ASRTI's Q2 2023 brunch meeting, Air Peace's Allen Onyema faulted NCAA for publishing delay figures without causes, while outgoing president Olowo proposed merging domestic airlines into two competing flag carriers.
Gabriel Olowo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 11 July 2023 · News report
Sen. Adede, Onyema decry unavailability of MRO due to bureaucracy, cost of land
Coverage of ASRTI's Q2 2023 brunch meeting, where Adede and Onyema blamed bureaucracy and land costs for Nigeria lacking an MRO; the event also marked Olowo handing the presidency to Onitiju.
Gbenga Olowo · Ademola Onitiju
ThisDay · 30 June 2023 · News report
Stakeholders to Brainstorm at ART Meeting
ThisDay preview of the July 11, 2023 ART business meeting in Ikeja, themed on resetting aviation, with Onyema leading discussion and a panel to shape an agenda for the incoming government.
Gbenga Olowo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 27 June 2023 · Press release
ART assembles stakeholders, set agenda for new dispensation at BBM
Preview of ASRTI's Q2 2023 brunch business meeting in Ikeja on resetting aviation for the new administration, with Allen Onyema as lead speaker, Musa Adede chairing, plus AGM, elections and a two-decade history book.
Gbenga Olowo
The Guardian (Nigeria) · 16 June 2023 · News report
ASRTI urges FG to replace Nigeria Air with three flag carriers
Guardian version of ASRTI's call to abandon the Nigeria Air project and let private operators consolidate into two or three large flag carriers, with bilateral agreements reviewed for reciprocity.
Gabriel Olowo
Nairametrics · 14 June 2023 · News report
National Carrier Crises: New Government should steer clear of aviation business – ART President
Olowo urged the Tinubu government to avoid running businesses like Nigeria Air, proposing instead that 20-plus licensed airlines form two or three alliances of about 50 aircraft as flag carriers, backed by reviewed BASAs.
Gabriel Olowo
ThisDay (via AllAfrica) · 26 May 2023 · News report
Nigeria: Despite Several Moves to Defend His Action, Criticisms Trail Aviation Minister's Last Minute Appointments
Stakeholders condemned Sirika's eleventh-hour agency appointments; ART proposed a 30-day transitional extension so the incoming government could choose its own chiefs, and urged compliance with the NCAA Act.
John Ojikutu · Olumide Ohunayo
Nairametrics · 24 May 2023 · Press release
Group Canvasses scrapping Ministry of Aviation amid criticisms against Hadi Sirika
ART proposed folding the aviation ministry into Transport, criticised Sirika's last-minute decisions and micromanagement, demanded NCAA independence and opposed moving NASRDA under aviation.
Gabriel Olowo
The Sun · 12 May 2023 · Interview
Why AMCON failed managing Aero Contractors, Arik Air -Olowo, aviation expert
Olowo argued a debt-recovery agency was ill-suited to turn airlines around, noted Arik's shrinkage to about six working aircraft, scored the outgoing government around 40% on reforms, and raised $718 million in trapped foreign airline funds.
Gbenga Olowo
Leadership · May 2023 · News report
Experts Kick As Aviation Minister Removes NAMA Boss
After Sirika removed FAAN and NAMA chiefs late in his tenure, ART called the appointments capricious and objected to renaming the ministry to include aerospace and moving NASRDA under it.
Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 28 April 2023 · News report
Failed Concession of Nigerian Airports
On the stalled airport concessions, Ohunayo, as ART spokesman, said private operators bring efficiency, citing Asaba and Warri, and urged restructuring FAAN into a listed profit-making company while faulting Sirika's impact on agencies.
Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 21 April 2023 · News report
Addressing Insecurity at Nigerian Airports
Feature on repeated stowaway breaches at Lagos airport; Ojikutu urged regular NCAA security inspections and audits, warning that any neglected security layer exposes the airport to threats.
John Ojikutu
Nairametrics · 29 March 2023 · Interview
Aviation professional condemns establishment of additional airports, canvasses hubs
Olowo told Nairametrics that new state airports such as Abia and Edo are politically appealing but uneconomic, and urged investment in a Lagos hub with better terminal links and fewer checkpoints.
Gabriel Olowo
Nairametrics · 11 March 2023 · Interview
Aviation stakeholder canvasses payment of airfares in dollars so as to curb 'exploitation'
Olowo urged that international fares be payable in dollars and other currencies, arguing naira-only rules let foreign carriers restrict seat inventory and exploit travellers.
Gabriel Olowo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 9 February 2023 · News report
Failure to compose aviation boards has led to organisational recklessness- Stakeholders
Drawing on an ASRTI communique, the report says the failure to inaugurate agency boards required by the Civil Aviation Act has concentrated decisions on the minister and weakened accountability; NUATE's general secretary echoed the concern.
Gbenga Olowo
Nairametrics · 3 February 2023 · News report
Aviation association says industry has been operating below performance in 8 years under President Buhari
Nairametrics' report of the same Q1 meeting: Olowo called Nigeria Air stillborn and the national MRO unborn, rated concession inconclusive, and faulted absent agency boards and a costly NAHCO strike.
Gabriel Olowo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 2 February 2023 · News report
Ahead of 2023 Elections, ASRTI rate key aspects of aviation below par in 8 years
At a Lagos breakfast meeting on aviation beyond the 2023 polls, ASRTI scored 2015–2023 as below par, saying few of its recommendations were implemented while crediting the new Civil Aviation Act and accident-investigation reforms.
Gbenga (Gabriel) Olowo
Leadership · 2023 · News report
Stakeholders Bemoan Lack Of Technical Experts, Stringent AOC Guidelines Stunting Aviation Growth
Feature on skills gaps and strict operator certification rules; Olowo said Nigeria lacks neither expertise nor knowledge in aviation, only genuine government commitment to fixing problems.
Gabriel Olowo
Leadership · 2023 · News report
X-raying FAAN's Roles As Airlines Grapple Under Heavy Burden Of Bird Strikes
On rising bird strikes, Ohunayo said FAAN, not the ministry, is responsible for wildlife control, that strikes can be minimised in hotspot areas, and that insurance liability should return to the FAAN Act.
Olumide Ohunayo

2022

Nairametrics · 12 October 2022 · Press release
Lekki-Epe Airport: ASRTI backs Lagos State Govt, seeks NCAA, ministry support
ASRTI endorsed Lagos State's planned Lekki-Epe airport, asked the aviation ministry and NCAA to grant approvals, suggested a PPP model and called for repair of memorial cenotaphs and access roads at past crash sites.
Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 30 September 2022 · News report
Nigeria Air and the Future of Aviation Industry
Ojikutu opposed Nigeria Air taking a foreign technical partner that competes on bilateral routes, recalling unhelpful KLM and SAA tie-ups, and suggested partners from non-competing countries such as Canada or Australia.
John Ojikutu
BusinessDay · 6 September 2022 · News report
Stowaway: Unaddressed security breaches put travellers at risk
After a stowaway incident, Ojikutu said Lagos airport's 23km perimeter fence meets safety not security standards, flagged encroaching buildings, and asked NCAA to review airport and airline security programmes.
John Ojikutu
ThisDay · 28 August 2022 · News report
Excited by CBN's $265m, Foreign Airlines Reintroduce Lower Class Tickets
After the central bank released $265 million of trapped airline revenue, Ohunayo said the payment helped restore Nigeria's image, warned against being lumped with Venezuela or Zimbabwe, and urged forex supply until arrears were cleared.
Olumide Ohunayo
Leadership · August 2022 · News report
Aviation Sector Crisis: Reprieve As CBN Releases $265m To Airlines
Ohunayo called the $265 million release of trapped airline funds a win-win, hoped foreign carriers would restore schedules and cut fares, and urged official-rate dollar access for domestic airlines too.
Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 6 June 2022 · News report
Finally, Nigeria Air to Get Operating Licence Today
As Nigeria Air neared its operating licence, Olowo argued that national carriers have gone out of fashion and the label carries little practical meaning.
Gabriel Olowo
BusinessDay · 12 April 2022 · News report
Mixed fortunes as foreign airlines expand Nigerian footprint
Feature on multiple foreign-airline designations beyond Lagos and Abuja; Ojikutu wanted them limited to one main gateway plus one other, and Olowo said Nigeria lacks real participation in international air transport.
John Ojikutu · Gabriel Olowo
ThisDay · 14 January 2022 · News report
Stakeholders Decry Influx of Foreign Airlines at Nigerian Airports, Says it Will Stifle Growth of Domestic Airlines
Stakeholders objected to Qatar Airways' added Kano and Port Harcourt access; Ojikutu argued foreign carriers should be confined to Lagos or Abuja with local airlines feeding them.
John Ojikutu
BusinessDay · 9 January 2022 · News report
Concerns over increasing aircraft amid limited parking spaces at airports
As fleets and new airlines grew, Ojikutu warned of aircraft parking shortages and urged carriers to return to designated operating bases instead of concentrating in Lagos; others proposed slots and longer airport hours.
John Ojikutu
BusinessDay · 5 January 2022 · Interview
To attract aviation investment in 2022, insecurity must be addressed - Olowo
Interview reviewing 2021's partial recovery; Olowo said new variants erased gains, asked government to fix insecurity and the business climate, and favoured several strong Nigerian flag carriers over a rushed national carrier.
Gabriel Olowo

2021

Aviation Line · 31 December 2021 · Interview
Dr. Gabriel Olowo, President Aviation Round Table (ART) x-rays aviation in 2021, previews 2022
Year-end review in which Olowo said Delta and Omicron variants reversed 2021's recovery and slowed airport investment, urged better security and business climate, and said strong competitive flag carriers matter more than the national carrier's timeline.
Gabriel Olowo
ThisDay · 17 December 2021 · News report
Nigeria Short Changed by International Carriers Through Lopsided BASA Deals
Ojikutu said past air service agreements favoured foreign carriers and blamed ministry negotiators; Olowo welcomed the regulator's move against Emirates' frequency imbalance with Air Peace and demanded reciprocity in frequencies and entry points.
John Ojikutu · Gbenga Olowo
ThisDay · 19 November 2021 · News report
Reps Mulls Single Security Administration for Airports
On a House of Representatives plan for a TSA-style single screening agency at airports, Olowo welcomed the idea and ART backed centralised screening to end repeated checks; Ojikutu proposed a dedicated security agency.
Gabriel Olowo
BusinessDay · 1 November 2021 · News report
Flight disruptions loom in Nigeria as ground handlers begin strike
As ground handling workers struck over rates, Olowo condemned political interference touching on safety, called proposed handling tariff increases justified by global costs and currency swings, and suggested resistance implied hidden subsidies.
Gabriel Olowo
Aviation Metric · 11 August 2021 · News report
Ojikutu seeks probe of under-declared aviation revenue
Ojikutu alleged years of under-declared aviation revenue from passenger service, landing and parking charges, framed the gap as an insider and security risk, and sought an urgent probe of losses since 2015.
John Ojikutu
Nigerian Flight Deck · 29 April 2021 · News report
Experts dissect pros, cons of interlines and codeshares for aviation industry
At ART's breakfast meeting on interlining and codesharing, speakers including Ibom Air's George Uriesi and IATA's Samson Fatokun urged NCAA to tie AOC renewal to interline readiness, while noting legal and cost hurdles.
Gabriel Olowo · Alexander Nwuba
Aviation Monitor · 29 April 2021 · News report
Fixing The Weakness Of Local Airlines, By Olowo
In welcome remarks at an ASRTI webinar, Olowo said interlining and code-sharing would strengthen Nigerian airlines, linked poor punctuality to thin fleets, and asked regulators to steer carriers into a shared clearing house.
Gabriel Olowo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 20 April 2021 · News report
FEC's N10bn automation approval: For modern state-of-the-art terminals or terminals slated for concession?
Questioning a N10 billion terminal automation approval, Olowo said six years on there was still no clear airport concession policy, contrasted Ghana's quick upgrade, and queried the absence of public bidding.
Gbenga Olowo
The Nation · 15 April 2021 · News report
Airports attack: Aviation experts urge FG to beef up security
Responding to a threat alert of attacks on airports, ASRTI's president urged centralised airport security, its secretary-general wanted intelligence shared with NCAA, and its PRO asked NCAA to convene security providers.
Gabriel Olowo · John Ojikutu · Olumide Ohunayo
ThisDay · 18 January 2021 · News report
Operators Anticipate Special Exchange Rate for Airlines
Amid hopes for a special forex rate for airlines, Olowo renewed ART's call for carriers to merge into airlines with around 30 aircraft, criticised the 'me alone' attitude and said COVID-19 should not deter new investors.
Gbenga Olowo

2020

CNBC Africa · 2 December 2020 · TV or radio
Nigeria's aviation sector reeling from COVID-19 shock
Video segment on criticism that the government's N4 billion palliative for the aviation sector was too small; page tags link it to Gbenga Olowo and the Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative.
Gbenga Olowo (presumed)
ThisDay · 2 October 2020 · News report
At 60, Experts Highlight Opportunities, Challenges in Aviation Sector
Independence-anniversary review: Ojikutu said airports and traffic grew but weak business planning, poor airline finances and lax oversight persist, and proposed favouring domestic carriers and audit-based tiered flag carriers.
John Ojikutu
African Business Travel · 17 August 2020 · Communiqué coverage
Concession of airports: Participants at ASRTI webinar enjoin transparency to avoid past controversies
ASRTI's ten-point webinar communique urged an open, lawful terminal concession process, settlement of disputes over earlier FAAN concessions, attention to workers' and unions' fears, and consideration of all 22 airport terminals.
African Business Travel · 10 August 2020 · Press release
Airports concession crisis: ART to hold webinar conference for stakeholders
Announcement of a 13 August 2020 ART webinar on the planned concession of four major airports, convened because of stakeholder unease about how the process was being handled.
Frank Ogochukwu · Gbenga Olowo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 24 May 2020 · Press release
ART expresses displeasure at botched Air Peace evacuation of stranded Nigerians from Canada
ART condemned Canada's cancellation of Air Peace's evacuation flight for stranded Nigerians as vague and anti-competitive, and urged the foreign affairs and aviation ministries to press Ottawa to reconsider.
Olumide Ohunayo
The Eagle Online (via NAN) · 18 May 2020 · Press release
Impounded British aircraft: Group asks FG to hold agent responsible for illegal operation
ASRTI asked government to hold accountable the local agent who secured approval for a Flair Aviation jet cleared only for humanitarian flights but caught flying commercially during the COVID-19 flight ban.
John Ojikutu
Nigerian Flight Deck · 7 May 2020 · Opinion
COVID-19: Olowo says N2tr economic injection not enough for passenger airlines alone
Olowo argued the planned N2 trillion stimulus should reach airports, handlers and travel intermediaries too, proposing revenue-based grants, six months of wage support, cheap loans and tax relief, while backing a cautious restart of flights.
Gabriel Olowo
African Business Travel · 1 May 2020 · News report
Aviation sector deserves robust palliative measure to take off after COVID-19 - Gbenga Olowo
Olowo urged strong COVID-19 relief for aviation, endorsed AmCham Nigeria's 13-point stimulus plan, and said full flight operations would not be possible soon after lockdown eased given border and travel limits.
Gabriel Olowo
Newsverge · 18 February 2020 · News report
MMIA: Stakeholders attribute flight diversion to improper planning
After harmattan diversions at Lagos, ASRTI voices said the calibration aircraft and instrument landing system should have been in place before the season, urging safety spending ahead of projects such as a simulator.
Olumide Ohunayo · Gbenga Olowo

2019

Nigerian Flight Deck · 9 December 2019 · Communiqué coverage
ASRTI seek better aviation strategies, implementations ahead 2025
Q4 2019 meeting resolutions on 'Nigerian Aviation and Beyond 2025' urged updated national policy, agency coordination, airline alliances, less state involvement in airlines, airport concessions and measures against professional brain drain.
Olumide Ohunayo
CNBC Africa · 4 November 2019 · TV or radio
PRO of Aviation Round Table: Air Peace & others should go into alliance to create mega carriers
Closing Bell segment on Nigeria's national carrier plans in which ART's public relations officer argued Air Peace and other local airlines should ally to form larger carriers.
Olumide Ohunayo (PRO, presumed)
The Guardian (Nigeria) · 11 October 2019 · News report
An infant industry and life support mechanism
Analysis that airlines everywhere lean on state support; ASRTI's Olowo argued Nigerian aviation should be treated as an infant industry with cheaper finance as African skies open up.
Gabriel Olowo
Vanguard · 29 September 2019 · News report
National Carrier: Should a regulator also be an operator?
Feature questioning whether government should both regulate and run Nigeria Air; Olowo said the group wants no state monopoly, and that the airline's board and management, not the minister, should decide operations and compete fairly.
Gbenga Olowo
Economic Confidential · 23 September 2019 · News report
Experts Urge NCAA, AIB To Synergise For Improved Air Safety In Nigeria
Report of ASRTI's quarterly business breakfast where Harold Demuren, Nnamdi Udoh, AIB and NCAA voices debated cooperation between regulator and investigator on safety recommendations and their timeliness.
Precise Post · 21 August 2019 · News report
Mixed Reactions Trail Return of Sirika as Aviation Minister
On Sirika's reappointment, Olowo said the second term leaves no room for rhetoric and urged measurable results on airport concessions, modern terminals and car parks, citing Ghana's progress.
Gbenga Olowo
The Guardian (Nigeria) · 19 April 2019 · News report
One aviation industry, too many facts, figures
Examines conflicting 2016–2018 traffic and revenue figures from agents, GDS firms, NCAA and IATA; ASRTI's president and secretary general called for reconciled data and government oversight of sector earnings.
Gbenga Olowo · John Ojikutu
BusinessDay · 7 February 2019 · News report
Helicopter crash: ART expresses concerns over VP's security, Nigerian pilots' plight
BusinessDay's account of the same ART statement on the Osinbajo helicopter incident: relief at no fatalities, worries over crowd and fire risk, and criticism of hiring a foreign pilot when Nigerian pilots are available.
Olumide Ohunayo
Sahara Reporters · 6 February 2019 · Press release
Aviation Professionals 'Embarrassed' To See Osinbajo Being Flown Around Nigeria By A Foreign Pilot
After the Kabba helicopter crash-landing carrying Vice President Osinbajo, the group questioned crowd control and landing preparations, objected to use of a foreign pilot, and said it would await the AIB report.
Olumide Ohunayo

2018

The Guardian (Nigeria) · 20 November 2018 · News report
Airlines face extinction over underpricing, low-income drive
Feature arguing domestic fares near N30,000 cannot cover naira-driven costs; Ojikutu said airlines cannot survive on sub-$100 hour-long flights and faulted NCAA's weak economic regulation.
John Ojikutu
Aviation Business Journal · 17 October 2018 · News report
How Indigenous Airlines Can Be Resilient
Report of ASRTI's Q4 2018 breakfast meeting in Lagos, where Edward Boyo, Dapo Olumide and others blamed airline failures on weak governance, poor financial planning and wrong aircraft choices, and prescribed sound management and maintenance.
Gabriel Olowo
ThisDay · 25 May 2018 · News report
Shrinking Air Travel Market
Feature on Nigeria's shrinking airline fleet; Olowo traced operating aircraft from 54 in 2010 to about 42 and blamed costly fuel, funds and airport rents, while others cited weak governance and undercapitalised carriers.
Gbenga Olowo
Business A.M. (via NAN) · 21 January 2018 · News report
Economic recession responsible for drop in 2017 passenger traffic- Nigerian Aviation group
Olowo blamed recession and a weak December travel season for a roughly 26% fall in 2017 air passengers per NCAA data, and predicted recovery in 2018 as the economy improved and pre-election spending rose.
Gbenga Olowo

2017

Nigerian Flight Deck · 12 September 2017 · News report
Olowo, others explain how Nigeria achieved zero accident year
At Akwaaba's Aviation Day, Olowo credited Nigeria's accident-free run to foreign audits, IOSA, pilot training, safety management systems, bigger maintenance budgets and newer fleets; AIB's Tunji Oketunbi tied gains to post-2005/2006 reforms.
Gabriel Olowo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 16 August 2017 · News report
Gabriel Olowo to speak at 2017 Akwaaba Travel Market
Announcement that ART/ASRTI president Olowo would keynote Akwaaba Travel Market's Aviation Day in Lagos on why Africa recorded no commercial jet accidents in 2016.
Gabriel Olowo
Nigerian Flight Deck · 20 June 2017 · Press release
ART commends Presidency's move to improve aviation
The think tank welcomed presidential ease-of-business executive orders, especially removal of extra check-in 'dash tables', and asked agencies and unions to stop blocking airline counters over debts, upgrade navigation communications and enforce the AIP.
Olumide Ohunayo · Gabriel Olowo
The Sun (via NAN) · 27 April 2017 · News report
Aviation Round Table mourns Borishade
ART mourned former aviation minister Babasola Borishade, crediting his short tenure with the Civil Aviation Bill, restored Nigeria–US flights and a strong ICAO audit score, and urged politicians to set and meet delivery deadlines.
Gbenga (Gabriel) Olowo
The Sun · 9 April 2017 · Interview
Dearth of forex killing aviation sector -Gabriel Olowo, President, Aviation Roundtable
Sunday Sun Q&A in which Olowo doubted AMCON could rescue Arik and Aero, blamed most airline failures on policy and forex scarcity, criticised the ministry and called for a consolidated flag carrier.
Gabriel Olowo

2016

ThisDay · 13 May 2016 · Interview
Expert Proffers Solution to Nigerian Airlines' Problems
Olowo blamed shrinking fleets and insolvent domestic carriers on hostile policy, high charges and weak governance, and proposed ticket-based collection of user charges and pooling operators under a shared operating certificate.
Gbenga Olowo

2015

ThisDay (PressReader) · 3 September 2015 · News report
Arik Chairman Calls for Forensic Audit of Aviation Ministry
Arik Air's chairman used a Lagos forum to demand a forensic audit of the aviation ministry, complain that bilateral deals favour foreign carriers, and dismiss worries about a state-backed national carrier.
Joseph Arumemi-Ikhide
Blueprint · 8 January 2015 · News report
Global aviation records high traffic, tragedy in 2014
A year-end review of aviation in 2014; in its section on Jet A-1 prices it cites an ART communique blaming expensive aviation fuel, truck supply bottlenecks and demurrage for eroding Nigerian airlines' profits.
Dele Ore

2013

Channels Television · 8 January 2013 · News report
Dana Crash: Absence Of Pathologist Stalls Inquest
The resumed coroner's inquest into the Dana crash stalled when the pathologist failed to appear; the report notes the court had dismissed the group's suit against the inquest as lacking merit.

2012

Channels Television · 28 September 2012 · News report
Court strikes out suit seeking to halt inquest into Dana Air crash
A Federal High Court judge lifted the interim order pausing the Dana crash inquest, refused the group's injunction request, ordered speedy hearing of the main suit and awarded costs against the applicants.
Dele Ore · Collins Ogbonna
Channels Television · 14 September 2012 · TV or radio
Nigeria aviation industry is dying gradually – Dele Ore
On a breakfast TV programme after the Dana crash and the airline's suspension and reinstatement, Capt. Ore warned that Nigeria's aviation sector was in slow decline despite its importance to the economy.
Dele Ore
Peoples Daily (Issuu edition) · 7 September 2012 · News report
[Untitled item, Peoples Daily print edition: Dana crash inquest suit]
An item in the day's print edition reports that the Federal High Court admitted a Dana Air affidavit backing the group's request to halt the Lagos coroner's inquest into the June crash.
BellaNaija · 4 September 2012 · News report
Dana Air crash inquest suspended indefinitely as fresh suit challenges the powers of the coroner
The Lagos coroner's inquest into the June 2012 Dana crash was put on hold after the group and its president sued, arguing that technical crash causes belong to aviation investigators, not a coroner.
Dele Ore · Joseph Nwobike