Obasanjo links African aviation growth to good governance

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized that good governance is the essential foundation for unlocking the aviation and tourism potential of West and Central Africa. Speaking at the AeroWest Summit 2026 in Lagos, Obasanjo argued that industry growth depends on a socio-economic chain: good governance fosters a thriving economy, which creates prosperity, thereby generating the passengers necessary for aviation to succeed.

Obasanjo noted that the continent does not lack connectivity or natural assets, but rather the ability to bring connectivity to life and the knowledge to value existing resources. He called for breaking down institutional silos through strategic partnerships between aviation regulators and tourism authorities.

To ensure sustainable growth, he recommended focusing on heritage conservation, grassroots capacity building in hospitality, and the preservation of natural and cultural ecosystems to make them viable for global and regional visitors.