In 2025, Nigeria’s aviation sector continued its recovery, with domestic demand driving most of the growth nationwide.
Airports handled 13.09 million domestic passengers as travellers consistently chose local air routes across the country.
Domestic passenger numbers rose from 12.54 million in 2024 to 13.09 million in 2025.
This increase of 4.33% reflected steady demand across Nigeria’s aviation network.
International traffic also grew, rising from 4.40 million in 2024 to 4.85 million in 2025.
This 10.26% rise showed stronger recovery in global travel connections.
Overall, Nigerian airports processed 17.94 million passengers in 2025, up from 16.94 million in 2024.
Domestic travel accounted for nearly 73% of total passenger traffic across airports.
International travel held a smaller share but recorded faster growth momentum.
Domestic Traffic Growth Trend
The Lagos–Abuja route remained the busiest domestic corridor nationwide.
Abuja’s role as administrative and business capital continued to drive strong demand.
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Lagos–Asaba and Lagos–Port Harcourt routes also maintained steady passenger flows.
Lagos Aviation Hub Activity
Operators in Lagos managed domestic services and recorded 60 to 65 daily departures.
This strengthened Lagos’s position as Nigeria’s central aviation hub.
Domestic traffic fell in 2024 but rebounded strongly in 2025.
International travel recovered more steadily with fewer fluctuations.
Nigeria Aviation Capacity Expansion
Lagos improved cargo handling and increased aircraft activity.
Airline seat capacity grew by over 21% year-on-year by June 2026.
Domestic capacity expansion placed Nigeria among Africa’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
Nigeria still trailed larger aviation hubs such as Egypt, Morocco, and Ethiopia.
Rising demand and expanding capacity continued to strengthen the sector.
Domestic aviation anchored growth while international travel steadily regained strength.
