The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has warned that Nigeria’s aviation sector is operating at only about 40 per cent efficiency in its digitalisation efforts, urging accelerated adoption of technology to improve performance and curb corruption.
Speaking in Lagos during the first anniversary of the ICAN Aviation Chapter, the Director of Membership Affairs, Sakiru Balogun, said the industry still relies heavily on manual and cash-based systems, which slows operations and creates opportunities for malpractice.
He noted that shifting fully to digital processes would significantly reduce human interference, improve transparency, and enhance service delivery across the aviation sector.
Balogun referenced global examples where airport services are fully automated, stressing that Nigeria must embrace similar systems to achieve operational efficiency. He added that human involvement in many processes often increases the risk of corruption.
According to him, although some progress has been made through electronic payments and online systems, the aviation industry is still in the early stages of full digital transformation.
He also identified low digital literacy among citizens as a major barrier, calling for stronger investment in training and awareness to support the transition.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the ICAN Aviation Chapter, Ayodele Olatiregun, said automation has already begun reshaping financial transactions in the aviation sector, noting that physical ticketing has largely been phased out.
He explained that digital systems have improved transparency in revenue collection and accounting, strengthening financial governance within the industry.
Former ICAN President and event chairman, Dr. Comfort Eyitayo, also emphasized that digitalisation is now essential in modern aviation, not optional. She said technology enhances accuracy, accountability, and risk management, all of which are critical to the sector’s growth.
She urged professionals in aviation to actively embrace innovation and contribute to building a more transparent and efficient system.
” Nigeria’s aviation digitalisation challenge goes beyond policy—it is also about funding models and execution. Modern aviation technology requires constant upgrades, often at significant cost to governments. Yet viable alternatives exist. Eden & Mcwhit Aviation Security proposed a zero-cost digitalisation model, covering infrastructure and continuous upgrades, but was reportedly declined by FAAN. This raises critical questions. The Ministry of Aviation must re-examine such opportunities to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda and leverage private capital to fast-track transparency, efficiency, and security without burdening public finances.” The National Patriots.
