The Lagos State Government is set to establish a dedicated Aviation Unit within the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, as part of efforts to strengthen oversight of the aviation sector within the state. This initiative, unveiled under the Lagos State Transport Policy, aims to meet the needs of stakeholders in Lagos, recognized as a pivotal aviation hub in West Africa and across the continent.
According to Section 4.11: Air Transport of the policy, the creation of the Aviation Unit is essential given Lagos State’s expanding role in aviation activities. The unit will focus on implementing aviation policies, fostering collaboration with federal authorities and private sector entities, and monitoring the economic, social, and environmental impact of aviation operations in Lagos.
The Lagos State Transport Policy outlines plans to operationalize the Aviation Unit within the Ministry of Transportation within the next two years, signaling a proactive step towards enhancing governance and regulatory oversight in the sector.
In parallel, the policy details the state government’s ambitious plans for the proposed international Lekki Airport. Positioned to cater to the burgeoning Lekki Peninsula area, which is witnessing significant growth in residential, industrial, and tourism sectors, the airport aims to provide enhanced accessibility for international travelers from neighboring states.
Over the next two to five years, Lagos State intends to explore the feasibility of the Lekki Airport through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, fostering private sector participation in financing, construction, and operational phases.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu previously disclosed plans for a new airline to operate passenger services in conjunction with the Lekki Airport project. The state government is finalizing financing arrangements and awaits federal approvals to advance this strategic initiative, as reported by Nairametrics in January 2024.
