Nigeria’s air transport sector played a pivotal role in the nation’s economy in 2023, contributing N215.6 billion to the gross domestic product (GDP), according to a recent report from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The data underscores the sector’s growing economic significance, with just three regions—Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Lagos, and Rivers—accounting for over 70 percent of the sector’s total output.

The NBS analysis revealed that Abuja topped the list with a contribution of N69.88 billion, representing 32.4 percent of the sector’s GDP share. Lagos followed closely with N62.64 billion (29 percent), while Rivers contributed N22.91 billion (10.6 percent). Other key contributors included Delta (N10.27 billion), Kano (N7.41 billion), Imo (N6.74 billion), Enugu (N5.72 billion), Edo (N5.17 billion), Akwa Ibom (N4.45 billion), and Borno (N2.66 billion). Collectively, these top 10 states accounted for more than 95 percent of the sector’s GDP contribution, highlighting the concentrated economic activity in Nigeria’s major aviation hubs.

In contrast, states such as Benue (N38.54 million), Jigawa (N53.76 million), Niger (N15.09 million), Kebbi (N249.11 million), and Bauchi (N264.37 million) recorded minimal contributions, reflecting limited aviation infrastructure or activity in these regions. Notably, several states, including Abia, Bayelsa, Ekiti, Kogi, Nasarawa, Ogun, Osun, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara, reported no air transport contributions to GDP in 2023, pointing to disparities in aviation development across the country.

Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), emphasized the sector’s broader economic impact during a statement on May 23, noting that aviation contributed $1.7 billion to Nigeria’s GDP. The sector’s growth was fueled by significant passenger traffic, with over 16 million passengers traveling through domestic terminals and more than 3.5 million recorded on international routes in 2023. This surge in passenger numbers reflects Nigeria’s increasing connectivity and the sector’s role in facilitating both domestic and international travel.

The data highlights the critical role of major aviation hubs like Abuja and Lagos, which serve as economic and administrative centers, in driving the sector’s contributions. However, the lack of activity in several states underscores the need for targeted investments in aviation infrastructure to ensure more equitable economic benefits across Nigeria. As the country continues to prioritize economic diversification, the air transport sector’s performance signals its potential as a key driver of growth, supporting tourism, trade, and regional connectivity.