The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced the certification process for China’s C919 aircraft, potentially paving the way for the homegrown Chinese jet to operate on domestic routes, according to Capt. Chris Ona Najomo, Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
Speaking to Reuters on the sidelines of the UN aviation agency’s assembly in Montreal on September 29, 2025, Najomo confirmed that the process, which could take months, is a critical first step toward integrating the C919 into Nigeria’s aviation market.
Manufactured by China’s state-owned Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), the C919 is a narrow-body jet designed to compete with industry giants Boeing and Airbus.
Nigeria’s engagement with COMAC reflects Beijing’s push to penetrate Africa’s growing aviation sector, with ongoing discussions aimed at facilitating the jet’s adoption.
However, the C919 faces challenges, including a lack of certification from Western regulators, delivery delays, and recent U.S. export restrictions on its CFM engines.
Najomo revealed that COMAC has committed to providing maintenance and training support for Nigerian airlines interested in operating the C919.
The company also offered dry lease arrangements—leasing planes without crew—to enhance affordability and confidence among aircraft lessors.
“We just told them that if they can make sure they facilitate a good dry lease arrangement, it’s better,” Najomo stated, noting that these efforts are already improving access to newer aircraft for Nigeria’s 13 operational airlines through the leasing market.
The move comes as air travel in Nigeria grows more accessible, with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reporting a 43.6 percent drop in average real airfare between 2011 and 2023, despite affordability challenges for many citizens.
Currently, the C919 is operated solely by Chinese airlines, making Nigeria’s potential adoption a significant milestone for COMAC’s global expansion.
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