Nigeria’s aviation industry has grown from humble beginnings in small hangars to modern terminals buzzing with passengers, evolving into a critical driver of the nation’s economic and infrastructural development.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) estimates that Nigeria’s air transport industry adds $2.5 billion annually to GDP and sustains roughly 217,000 jobs, highlighting its role as a major employment and growth engine.
Today, Nigeria is home to 10 domestic passenger airlines. Its skies tell a story of ambition and innovation, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit that has long shaped the country’s business landscape.
The domestic airline seat capacity rose by six per cent year-on-year, increasing from 642,717 seats in October 2024 to 681,204 seats in October 2025, making Nigeria Africa’s second-largest domestic aviation market, just behind South Africa.
For decades, Nigeria’s aviation landscape has been shaped not only by pilots and cabin crews. Behind the statistics and busy airports are the visionaries who invest heavily to keep the industry moving. Entrepreneurs and promoters who build fleets, open new routes, and design customer experiences that push local airlines onto the global stage.
Here are the founders of 10 leading Nigerian passenger airlines:
Arik Air was established in 2004 by Sir Joseph Arumemi-Ikhide, a Nigerian engineer, entrepreneur, and investor with extensive interests in aviation, engineering, and agriculture.
A graduate of Mechanical Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1973), Sir Arumemi-Ikhide built his early career through Rockson Engineering Company Limited, which he founded in 1999. The company became one of Nigeria’s leading engineering firms, employing hundreds of engineers and technicians and managing assets valued at over $300 million.
Following the liquidation of Nigeria Airways, Arumemi-Ikhide identified a gap in the country’s aviation sector and founded Arik Air in 2004, officially launching operations in October 2006. His goal was to create a world-class Nigerian carrier capable of operating domestic, regional, and international routes.
Under his leadership, Arik Air grew rapidly, becoming one of Nigeria’s largest commercial airlines with a fleet of about 28 aircraft and routes across Nigeria, 12 West and Central African countries, as well as intercontinental destinations including London Heathrow, New York JFK, and Johannesburg.
Sir Arumemi-Ikhide’s leadership was credited with redefining air travel standards in West Africa, earning him multiple honors, including the national title of Commander of the Order of Niger (CON).
However, the airline later faced severe financial challenges. In 2017, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) took over its management due to mounting debts, marking a significant shift in control. Despite these setbacks, Arik Air remains one of Nigeria’s most recognized carriers, with its legacy tied to the vision and ambition of its founder.
