Laws and Regulatory Bodies Governing the Aviation Sector in Nigeria

Laws and Regulatory Bodies Governing the Aviation Sector
Laws and Regulatory Bodies Governing the Aviation Sector

In Nigeria, the procedures for obtaining an aviation license under Nigerian law include adherence to the Civil Aviation Act 2022. This Act provides the legal foundation for the aviation industry.

Before you use the Nigerian Air space, your business must have agreements with these Nigerian Aviation Laws and regulatory bodies to avoid obstructions and seizure of Air Plans and automobiles.

This article seeks to outline the various Aviation laws and regulatory bodies governing the industry in Nigeria.

Table of contents

1. Corporate Affairs Commission

This commission plays a major role in facilitating business growth in Nigeria. Any company seeking to operate in the aviation industry must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission. The Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020 (CAMA) is the primary legislation governing company registration in Nigeria.

2. Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)

The primary regulatory body for aviation in Nigeria is the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), established through the Civil Aviation Act, 2006, which provides for the safety and economic regulation of the industry, including airport, air space, and meteorological services. The NCAA is responsible for regulating the safety of aircraft operations, air navigation, and aerodrome operations. The NCAA works to ensure that the Nigerian Aviation Industry meets international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The NCAA is responsible for issuing licenses, such as the Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC), the Air Transport Licence (ATL), and the Airline Operating Permit (AOP). The NCAA advises the Federal Ministry of Aviation on aviation-related issues.

3. Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria Act 1996

This act established the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), which is responsible for the development, provision, and maintenance of airports and associated services. The Federal Ministry of Transportation provides policies and guidelines for FAAN to perform its statutory functions.

4. Nigeria Airspace Management Act 1999

Section 1 of this act establishes the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), which is responsible for air traffic services, airspace management, aeronautical telecommunications, etc.

5. The Civil Aviation Act of 2022

The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, places aviation matters under the exclusive jurisdiction of the National Assembly. This implies that only they have the authority to create laws and regulations pertaining to aviation matters in Nigeria. This act was enacted by the National Assembly and is the principal legislation for the aviation industry in Nigeria. Section 1 of the act empowers the Minister of Aviation to control and supervise authority over civil aviation in Nigeria.

6. Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 (NCAR)

This is a regulation issued by the NCAA pursuant to its regulatory powers under the CAA 2006. The NCAR deals with issues that have to do with aircraft registration and marking, consumer protection, personnel licensing, and airworthiness, amongst others.

7. Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB)

The CAA established the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) to investigate aviation accidents and incidents in Nigeria. Their role involves assuring safety and compliance in the aviation business.

8. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

ICAO sets international standards for civil aviation and ensures that states fulfil their obligations under the convention on International Civil Aviation.

Conclusion

The aviation industry in Nigeria is governed by a robust framework of laws and regulations, with the Civil Aviation Act 2022 playing a pivotal role. Understanding these regulations is crucial for stakeholders to navigate the industry effectively. By adhering to these laws, Nigeria’s aviation sector can continue to grow and develop.

Disclaimer

This publication has been prepared for general guidance on matters of interest only, and does not constitute professional advice. You should not act upon the information contained in this publication without obtaining specific professional advice.

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Tabitha Onyinye  Uwakeme
Tabitha Onyinye  Uwakeme

Tabitha Onyinye Uwakeme is a corporate lawyer, regulatory advisor, and founder of TCorporate Legal Advisory, a firm transforming how African businesses access legal solutions. With offices in Abuja and Lagos. She has supported over 5,000 clients in navigating tax, regulatory, and business law complexities. A member of the Nigerian Bar Association and an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Tabitha brings nearly a decade of experience in simplifying compliance for startups, multinationals, and public institutions. She also hosts Law on the Street, a vox pop program that breaks down legal concepts for everyday Nigerians, and leads free legal empowerment sessions to promote business growth through knowledge

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