By Hassan Umar Shallpella
Since the commencement of airline operations in Nigeria decades ago, the sector was male dominated but a humanitarian, philanthropist and a grassroots politician from Adamawa State, Sen. Aisha Dahiru Ahmed Binani has break that dominance with the acquiring of Operator Certificate for BINANI AIR GLOBAL SERVICES. The Binani Air is set to commence operations in April 2026.
Sen. Binani is making history and will continue to make history, she is the first woman to float an Airline in northern Nigeria and also first Woman to secure AOC for schedule operations in Nigeria. The feat recorded in securing the certificate is due to her resilience and determination in addressing any obstacle until the certification was finally achieved.
While presenting Air Operator Certificate to Binani Air Global Services to commence scheduled flight operations on March 18, 2026 in Abuja by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo described the certification as a historic milestone and significant breakthrough with the emergence of a female-led airline in a sector long dominated by men.
Capt. Najomo praised the airline’s owner, Sen. Aishatu Binani Dahiru and the management team for their persistence throughout the rigorous certification process, stressing their determination and consistency in addressing every requirement and obstacle until the certification was finally achieved.
He advise the airline’s management to prioritize proper planning, professionalism, and continuous adherence to safety and operational standards as there is no room for shortcuts in the industry.
In her remarks, Sen. Binani expressed gratitude to the NCAA for its guidance and professionalism throughout the process, describing the journey as both challenging and rewarding.
Binani also acknowledged the support of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, eulogizing their deep commitment to creating an enabling environment which has contributed significantly to the airline’s success.
