Connectivity Archives - Aviation metric

Balkan: Our network provides Nigerian travellers with unparalleled connectivity to 356 destinations in 132 countries

Posted on February 23, 2026February 23, 2026 by Wole Shadare

Lokman Balkan is the General Manager of Turkish Airlines in Nigeria. His leadership has been characterised by a strategic focus on expanding the airline’s footprint in Africa and improving the passenger experience for Nigerian travellers. In this interview with WOLE SHADARE in his Lagos office, he speaks on aggressive expansion of the carrier with the airline hitting record global passenger numbers—surpassing 92 million in 2025—with integrated Nigerian culture into the skies Many travellers now prioritise comfort, flexibility, and…

Najomo: How protectionism hinders air connectivity, trade growth, high fares in Africa

Posted on June 1, 2025June 1, 2025 by Wole Shadare

The Director-General of Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo said African states face a number of challenges in balancing national carrier protectionism with the need for liberalization and regional connectivity. Protectionism, he lamented often leads to fewer carriers, poor service quality, and higher ticket prices for consumers, stressing that there is often a disconnect between aviation, tourism, and trade policies that undermines liberalisation goals. These challenges, he noted stem from political, economic, regulatory, and…

Making connectivity seamless with MMA2 regional operations

Posted on January 30, 2024 by Wole Shadare

Single-use terminals are gaining traction, particularly in terms of cost-cutting, simplifying navigation, and streamlining operations for airlines. This could also be beneficial for airlines operating from MMA2 to simplify their business, writes WOLE SHADARE Richard Branson’s example When billionaire, Richard Branson, launched Virgin Nigeria in 2004, he was lauded by the then government for bringing a credible national airline to a country with an appalling air safety record. Little could he have imagined that three…

Minister seeks ICAO’s support for Nigeria, Africa, air connectivity poses challenge

Posted on September 29, 2023September 29, 2023 by Wole Shadare

Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo has sought the support of the international aviation regulatory body the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) on the comprehensive civil aviation master plan and airport development of the country. The Minister made the disclosure when he paid a familiarisation visit to the ICAO Headquarters in Montreal Canada. The minister on behalf of the continent of Africa also mentioned the important role of air connectivity which he said ICAO should…