Aero @67: Sanusi seeks more aviation investment

Nigeria's aviation sector needs increased investment and should be prioritized in the country's Renewed Hope Agenda, according to Captain Ado Sanusi, CEO of Aero Contractors Company of Nigeria Limited. Speaking at the airline's 67th anniversary celebration, Sanusi warned that inadequate investment in airport infrastructure, aviation services, and maintenance capacity could turn Nigerian airports into "ghost airports," as neighboring countries develop facilities to attract Nigerian passengers, airlines, and aviation-related businesses.

He emphasized that aviation is not merely a mode of transport; it has been used deliberately as a catalyst for economic growth in various nations across the Gulf, East Africa, and the continent. Sanusi noted that Nigeria is currently considering a new mega-airport and major maintenance hub within a short flight from Lagos, which could potentially serve the Nigerian market and put Nigerian aviation jobs, investment, and business opportunities at risk.

Acknowledging the Federal Government's investments in infrastructure at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Sanusi called for more deliberate attention to aviation under the administration's economic agenda. He asked, "Where is Aviation in the Renewed Hope agenda?" Reflecting on Aero Contractors' 67-year history, Sanusi highlighted the airline's resilience as Nigeria's oldest carrier, surviving prolonged financial and operational challenges.

The airline started as a charter and crop-spraying operator in 1959 and has since expanded into various aviation services, including scheduled passenger operations, charter, rotary-wing services, MRO, and pilot training.

Sanusi recalled the airline's most difficult periods, including when its entire fleet was grounded and operations were suspended. He attributed the airline's survival to the commitment of its employees, despite facing uncertainty. Aero Contractors recently completed a C-check on a Boeing 737 at its Lagos hangar, marking the first indigenous Boeing 737 C-check in 14 years in West and Central Africa.

This achievement has enabled the airline to provide maintenance services to other airlines across West Africa, and the MRO facility now operates as an integrated aviation business.

Sanusi attributed the airline's improved financial position, moving from a loss of minus 134% in 2022 to a positive operating margin by 2025, to the intervention of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). He commended AMCON and Aero Contractors' Receiver/Manager, Senator Adeniyi Ayodele Adegbonmire, for their roles in supporting the company during its challenging years.

Describing Aero Contractors as a "national treasure," Sanusi urged the Federal Government to recognize and support the airline's continued development, stating, "Aero Contractors has flown through storms before. God willing, we will keep flying."