SLAMEN President Urges Policy Reforms As Nigeria Marks 100 Years Of Aviation
As Nigeria celebrates 100 years of aviation, the President of the Society of Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers of Nigeria (SLAMEN), Engr. Haladu Muhammad, has called on the Federal Government to review key economic and fiscal policies affecting the aviation industry to ensure its sustainability.
Speaking in an interview, Muhammad, who also serves as the Director of Continuing Airworthiness at Max Air described the century-long journey of Nigeria’s aviation industry as a major milestone worth celebrating, despite persistent challenges confronting local airlines.
According to him, the sector has contributed significantly to national development, creating employment opportunities and strengthening economic growth.
“Nigeria has everything to celebrate about a century of aviation. Aviation has played a key role in re-energizing the economy and creating jobs for many young people,” he said.
“Compared to 30 years ago, the number of people flying has increased remarkably, and the safety record of the industry has also remained very high.”
Muhammad, however, noted that the short life cycle of Nigerian airlines remains a pressing concern, attributing it to the high cost of operations, unstable foreign exchange rates, and inconsistent government policies.
He emphasized that the aviation sub-sector’s dependence on foreign exchange for aircraft purchase, maintenance, spare parts, and training continues to cripple growth, urging government intervention through favourable fiscal and monetary policies.
“As an operator, you need foreign exchange for almost everything, from aircraft acquisition to maintenance and fuel. These costs are huge, and without policy support, airlines will continue to struggle,” he explained.
On the proposed Tax Reforms Act expected to take effect in January 2026, the SLAMEN President cautioned that multiple taxation could worsen the financial burden on airlines if not properly reviewed.
“Taxation is necessary for economic growth, but it must be fair. I hope the new tax reforms will not lead to multiple taxation for the airline sub-sector,” he warned.
Muhammad also expressed concern over the high cost of Jet A1 (aviation fuel), which he said remains a major component of airline operating expenses. He, however, commended the Dangote Refinery for its emerging role in stabilizing fuel prices locally.
“The price of aviation fuel is tied to the dollar exchange rate, and this has made operations very expensive. But with Dangote Refinery now producing aviation fuel, we expect prices to drop gradually,” he added.
Speaking on the activities of SLAMEN, Muhammad said the association is committed to upholding professional ethics and protecting the rights of licensed aircraft maintenance engineers across the country.
“Our members are guided by strict ethical and regulatory standards. We ensure they work in line with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (NCARs) and maintain professionalism at all times,” he said.
Muhammad reiterating that Nigeria’s aviation sector, though faced with economic constraints, has shown resilience and made remarkable progress over the years.
