Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), the operator of Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), has reiterated its call for the first right of refusal in managing any airport concessions in Nigeria. The company’s Chief Operating Officer, Remi Jibodu, made this appeal while addressing the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) during a courtesy visit to BASL’s Lagos office.
Jibodu emphasized that BASL’s 18-year track record in efficiently managing MMA2 positions it as the most qualified private operator for future airport concessions. He stated that the company has the expertise to extend its operations beyond MMA2 to other airports across Nigeria and the West African region.
“We have successfully managed MMA2 for nearly two decades, ensuring seamless operations despite industry challenges. With this experience, we strongly believe we should be considered first when the government looks at airport concessions,” Jibodu asserted.
However, the BASL COO also raised concerns over declining passenger traffic at MMA2, attributing the dip to economic instability and airline capacity challenges. He noted that passenger numbers have fluctuated since April 2023, with a sharp decline following Dana Air’s temporary suspension of operations.
“In July and August, when fuel prices surged to about ₦4,000 per liter, we experienced a noticeable drop in traffic. Although there was some recovery in October, fluctuations persist,” he explained.
Jibodu identified high aircraft leasing costs as a major constraint for airlines, making it difficult for operators to maintain fleet sizes. He stressed that exorbitant interest rates—exceeding 30%—and inflation, which remains around 24.7%, have made financing nearly impossible for airlines, leading to reduced seat capacity and fewer flight options for passengers.
To counteract the downturn in passenger numbers, Jibodu suggested that the government focus on boosting economic productivity and trade activities around airports. He proposed the establishment of trade hubs to create business opportunities that would, in turn, drive air travel demand.
“Passenger traffic is directly linked to economic productivity. If businesses thrive and economic activities increase around airport locations, we will see a natural boost in air travel,” he added.
Despite the challenges, BASL remains optimistic about the future. Jibodu noted that the recent stabilization of foreign exchange rates, currently around ₦1,400 per dollar, could ease operational costs for airlines and improve passenger numbers in 2024.
As the aviation sector grapples with economic headwinds, BASL continues to push for greater participation in Nigeria’s airport management sector. Jibodu reaffirmed that with its proven expertise, the company is well-positioned to play a larger role in shaping the country’s aviation infrastructure.
