The Federal Government has earmarked N105.95 billion for the aviation industry in the 2025 budget, marking an increase from the N63.32 billion allocated in 2024. This funding aims to support the growth and modernization of the aviation sector.
Additionally, the government plans to refund N4 billion to the Kebbi State Government for the construction of Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in Birnin Kebbi, despite concerns from stakeholders. Critics argue against refunding state governments for building unviable airports.
The breakdown of the 2025 budget reveals that the aviation ministry will receive N71.12 billion, while the Nigerian Meteorological Agency is allocated N9.82 billion. Other notable allocations include N7.98 billion for the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology and N10.04 billion for the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau. The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency has been allocated N7 billion.
Interestingly, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria did not receive direct allocations, likely because they are cost-recovery agencies that manage their own finances.
Stakeholders, including aviation unions, have raised concerns over the government’s practice of deducting 50% of the agencies’ internally generated revenue, which ICAO advises against to ensure reinvestment in infrastructure and safety.