WorldStage— Senate President Godswill Akpabio has raised concerns over the severe capacity shortages plaguing Nigeria’s aviation sector, lamenting that politicians are struggling to hire private jets for their 2027 election campaign activities.
Speaking during a plenary session on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, Akpabio asserted that the structural deficit in air travel highlights an urgent need for the federal government to establish a functional national carrier.
The Senate President made these remarks during a legislative debate on a motion sponsored by Senate Chief Whip, Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North).
The motion sought a critical review and enforcement of Nigeria’s Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with China to enable direct commercial flights between both nations.
While contributing to the discussion on the broader challenges facing domestic air travellers, Akpabio used the looming festive rush and impending political season to paint a picture of an industry under intense strain.
“Watch December and the confusion. Even the private airlines cannot handle it. Common campaigns, we cannot see even private jets to hire,” Akpabio stated, warning that the political class is already feeling the pinch of limited aircraft availability.
“Somebody should bring a motion that will enable Nigeria to revive its own airline. Nigeria should have Nigeria Airways. A national carrier should birth in this country carrying Nigerian flag as it used to be,” he said.
He subsequently called on the executive branch to intervene and alleviate the operational plight of domestic airline operators.
Reflecting on the historical strength of Nigeria’s aviation industry, Akpabio recalled the era of the defunct national airline, Nigeria Airways, which he noted once maintained an impressive fleet of up to 40 aircraft.
He remembered when the carrier effortlessly transported citizens on major international routes, including seasonal religious pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia.
“How did we get here?” Akpabio questioned, expressing disappointment at how the national fleet had degraded so significantly over the decades.
He maintained that reviving a state-backed national airline is vital for easing local pressure and flying the Nigerian flag globally.
Following the exhaustive debate, the Senate adopted the motion and urged the Ministry of Aviation to immediately renegotiate the BASA terms with China to establish direct commercial links, a move lawmakers believe will boost trade, save foreign exchange, and reduce travel times.
