ICAN Chief Advocates Digital Transformation for Nigeria's Aviation Efficiency
The Director of Membership Affairs at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Sakiru Balogun, has declared that accelerated digital adoption is essential for enhancing operational effectiveness, curbing corruption, and reinforcing financial governance within Nigeria's aviation industry. Balogun made these remarks during the first anniversary celebration of ICAN Aviation in Lagos, themed 'Digital Transformation, Professional Excellence and Financial Governance within Nigeria's Aviation Industry'.
Transition from Manual to Digital Systems
Balogun highlighted that the aviation sector has historically depended on manual and cash-based transactions, which he stated limits efficiency and opens doors for malpractice. He argued that shifting to digital systems would significantly reduce human interference in operational processes, thereby improving service delivery and minimizing systemic loopholes. "Anything involving human beings, there's going to be some issues and it will lead to the evil that we call corruption," Balogun emphasized, urging full digitalization of aviation activities for greater efficiency and effectiveness.
Addressing Job Loss Concerns and Rating Current Efficiency
Dismissing fears that automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) might result in job losses, Balogun asserted that digital transformation actually creates new opportunities for adaptable professionals. He shared a personal anecdote from a trip to London, where automated systems handled tasks without human intervention, illustrating the potential for overall efficiency gains. Balogun rated Nigeria's current aviation efficiency at approximately 40 percent, acknowledging progress but stressing there is substantial room for improvement. He noted recent advancements like electronic toll payments and online transaction systems as early steps toward comprehensive digital transformation.
Barriers to Digital Adoption
However, Balogun identified low digital literacy among many Nigerians as a major obstacle to widespread adoption. This challenge underscores the need for targeted education and training initiatives to support the sector's digital evolution.
ICAN Aviation Chapter's Role and Financial Governance
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of ICAN Aviation Chapter, Ayodele Olatiregun, affirmed that digitalization is already reshaping financial operations within the aviation ecosystem. In his welcome address, Olatiregun pointed out that most transactions are now automated, with physical ticketing becoming obsolete. He stressed that financial governance is central to digital transformation, as accurate revenue tracking and accountability rely on robust automated systems. "At the end of the day, aviation is about paying for services and properly accounting for the revenues generated. Digital systems make this more transparent and efficient," Olatiregun added.
Olatiregun further expressed that ICAN members in the aviation sector have fully embraced this shift, positioning the chapter as a key driver of innovation despite its relatively small membership base.
Urgency of Digital Adoption Emphasized
Former ICAN President Dr. Comfort Eyitayo, who chaired the occasion, reinforced the urgency of digital adoption. She maintained that digitalization is no longer optional in modern aviation, given the industry's demand for precision, accountability, and strict risk management—qualities that align closely with the accounting profession. Eyitayo emphasized that integrating aviation operations with quality financial governance fosters a system built on transparency and excellence. She challenged professionals in the sector to move beyond routine responsibilities and actively contribute to shaping the future of aviation in Nigeria.
The week-long celebration served as a platform for industry stakeholders to discuss strategies for advancing digital transformation, with a consensus on its critical role in driving efficiency and integrity in Nigeria's aviation landscape.
