Nigeria’s VivaJets receives AOC - opening up new opportunities

Since it started operations two years ago, Nigerian business aviation company VivaJets has come a long way with an expanded fleet and route networks.

"If we get aviation right, we unlock a future where Africans can move, trade, and connect freely; and that future is within reach,” said Erika Achum, CEO of VivaJets.

Chukwuerika (Erika) Achum is a driving force in African aviation, leading Falcon Aerospace Limited and its diverse portfolio of companies, including VivaJets, FlyPJX, CharterXE, The Adrenalina, and Instig Labs.

Now the company VivaJets, has received its Air Operating Certificate (AOC) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), which gives the firm commercial rights into the 34 countries with its CEO Achum saying ‘if we get aviation right, we unlock a future where Africans can move, trade.’

"Our story illustrates the transformative power of business aviation in improving connectivity and innovation across Africa,” he said.  “We believe that Africa’s prosperity lies in connectivity within and with the continent.”

At the 2025 Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire, Achum issued a call for the urgent dismantling of long-standing barriers to air travel within the continent, emphasising that aviation is a key driver of economic integration and growth on the continent. 

“Our skies are still segmented by outdated agreements and policies. What Africa needs is a unified, modern aviation strategy that prioritises accessibility, innovation, and collaboration,” he said.

“We believe that Africa’s prosperity lies in connectivity within and with the continent. We are a continent of over 1.4 billion people, with growing cities, industries, and innovation hubs. If we get aviation right, we unlock a future where Africans can move, trade, and connect freely; and that future is within reach,” he added. 

Marcelle (Ella) Nethersole

Marcelle (Ella) Nethersole

Ella is a news editor for digital news channels including Arabian Aerospace, African Aerospace and Times Aerospace TV.