Cleaning Airport Toilets: A Prerequisite for Aerotropolis Development

The Current State of Nigerian Aviation

Chika Mbonu discusses the critical issues facing Nigeria’s aviation industry, highlighting the need for airport improvements, a focus on foreign exchange, and the challenges of managing Bureaux de Change (BDCs).

The State of Nigerian Airports

Nigerian airports, despite their potential, suffer from neglect and inadequate infrastructure. The government must prioritize improvements, including better sanitation.

Challenges in Nigerian Aviation

Chika Mbonu identifies key challenges within Nigeria’s aviation sector, including:

1. Lack of Rigor: Nigerian projects often lack careful planning and execution, leading to subpar infrastructure and services.
2. Poor Airport Management: Nigerian airports are often poorly managed by civil servants, leading to issues like unsanitary toilets and baggage delays.
3. Bureaux de Change (BDC) Proliferation: The rapid increase in BDCs has not addressed the core issue of foreign exchange supply.

The Way Forward for Nigerian Aviation

To address these challenges and support the growth of an aerotropolis, Nigeria must take the following steps:

1. Airport Improvement: Prioritize upgrading infrastructure, including sanitation, power, and connectivity.
2. Foreign Exchange Supply: Focus on expanding the supply of foreign exchange to stabilize the market.
3. Redefine BDCs: Reevaluate the role and regulations surrounding BDCs to ensure they contribute to foreign exchange supply.

A Call for Change

Chika Mbonu emphasizes the need for continuity in government projects and decisions. Concessioning airports should be about the country’s interests, not political loyalty.

The Importance of a Free FX Market

Mbonu suggests that a truly free foreign exchange market will promote competition and price stability, leading to better economic outcomes.

In conclusion, Chika Mbonu’s insights shed light on the critical issues facing Nigerian aviation. Addressing these challenges, from airport improvements to foreign exchange supply, is essential for the country’s development, especially in the context of building an aerotropolis.