The 29th Annual Conference of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) will be held this Thursday in Lagos, bringing together a host of high-profile stakeholders to address one of the most pressing issues in the Nigerian aviation industry financing.

Themed “Aviation Financing in Nigeria: The Risks, Opportunities, and Prospects”, this year’s conference promises to spark critical discourse around sustainable funding strategies for the sector, as Nigeria continues to seek long-term solutions to its aviation infrastructure and operational needs.

In a statement released by the Conference Committee Chairman, Wole Shadare, the League confirmed that renowned economist and Managing Director of Financial Derivatives Company Limited, Mr. Bismarck Rewane, will deliver one of the keynote addresses. Rewane is expected to provide a deep dive into Nigeria’s macroeconomic outlook, with emphasis on investment dynamics and financing models that can support aviation growth in a challenging fiscal environment.

“We are fully prepared to host what will be one of the most impactful discussions on aviation financing in recent times,” Shadare stated. “Mr Rewane’s inclusion adds significant depth to the programme. Delegates can expect high-value sessions and actionable policy recommendations tailored to Nigeria’s unique aviation challenges.”

Also scheduled to speak is the Managing Director of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Mr. Gbenga Alade, who will bring perspective on the role of asset recovery and management in aviation investment. In addition, seasoned aviation economist, Dr. Gabriel Olowo, will deliver a keynote on air transport economics and industry dynamics.

The conference will feature the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, as the Special Guest of Honour. His participation is expected to provide critical insight into the federal government’s financing frameworks, policy direction, and plans for long-term sectoral reform.

Director-General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, will deliver a goodwill message on behalf of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), reaffirming the regulator’s commitment to fostering a stable investment climate and enforcing standards that build investor confidence.

A panel session featuring leading voices in aviation will further enrich the discourse. Confirmed panellists include Dr. Alex Nwuba, Chairman of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association; Mr. Chris Aligbe, former General Manager of Nigeria Airways; Dr. Thomas Ogungbangbe, CEO of CITA Energies Ltd; and Capt. Roland Iyayi, CEO of TopBrass Aviation.

The LAAC Conference has become one of the most respected industry events on Nigeria’s aviation calendar, consistently serving as a platform for policy discussion, industry networking, and public-private collaboration aimed at strengthening the aviation sector.