The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has disclosed that Nigeria’s aviation sector contributes $2.5 billion annually to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), representing 0.7 per cent, while supporting more than 217,000 jobs.
IATA’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, Kamil Alawadhi, made this known in a statement issued to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary. He described aviation as a powerful driver of economic and social development, noting that air connectivity is central to unlocking growth and prosperity.
According to IATA, 39,500 people are directly employed in aviation-related activities—including airlines, airports, air navigation services, and manufacturing—generating $702 million in economic output. When supply chain activities, employee spending, and tourism are factored in, the sector’s contribution rises to $2.5 billion and 216,700 jobs.
Tourism alone accounts for $454.1 million of Nigeria’s GDP and 66,600 jobs, with international visitors contributing an estimated $760.2 million annually through spending on goods and services.
On passenger traffic, IATA reported that international travel made up 23 per cent of Nigeria’s origin-destination departures in 2023, equivalent to 2.1 million passengers. Europe was the largest destination, with 780,700 departures (38 per cent), followed by Africa with 485,400 (23 per cent), and North America with 373,000 (18 per cent).
In cargo operations, 195,700 tonnes of goods were transported through Nigerian airports last year, providing critical support to the country’s import and export activities.
Alawadhi emphasised that Nigeria’s young and rapidly growing population presents huge opportunities for the aviation sector. “By swiftly and safely connecting people across cities and regions, air transport generates significant consumer and economic benefits. It enriches lives, enhances cultural diversity, and in remote areas provides vital access to healthcare, education, and employment,” he said.
