NACCIMA, Chinese Aviation Firm Explore Partnership to Attract Investment, Boost Nigeria’s Aviation Industry
Engagement in Hainan targets aircraft maintenance investment, technology transfer, skills development and direct air connectivity between Nigeria and China.
November 7, 2026
The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has initiated discussions with a leading Chinese aircraft maintenance company, Grand China Aviation Maintenance Company Limited (GCAM), on potential areas of partnership aimed at attracting foreign investment, strengthening Nigeria’s aviation industry and creating employment opportunities.
The discussions took place on Friday, November 6, 2026, when a NACCIMA delegation, led by its National President, Engr. Jani Ibrahim, mni, OON, visited GCAM’s office in Haikou, Hainan Province, China, as part of efforts to deepen bilateral business relations and explore new investment opportunities between both countries.
The meeting was facilitated by Nigeria’s Consul General in Guangzhou, Ambassador Mairo Musa Abbas, who accompanied the delegation. It was held on the sidelines of the 2026 Hainan Free Trade Port International Investment Cooperation Promotion Conference.
GCAM, established in 2012, is a subsidiary of HNA Technic Company Limited, under the HNA Aviation Group, identified as one of China’s major aviation groups. The company provides specialised aircraft maintenance services, including airframe maintenance, repairs, inspections, cabin refurbishment and overhaul, with the technical capacity to support a fleet of more than 600 aircraft.
Speaking during the engagement, Ibrahim described Nigeria as a promising destination for the company’s investment, citing its large population, strategic position in Africa and growing aviation market.
He urged GCAM to consider establishing a presence in Nigeria, noting that the country’s population of over 200 million people and significant air traffic offer considerable opportunities for business expansion.
The NACCIMA President also proposed the establishment of direct flight connections between Nigeria and China through Hainan Province, expressing the association’s readiness to engage HNA Aviation Group towards exploring the feasibility of the initiative.
According to him, improved air connectivity would reduce travel time for businesspeople and other travellers, facilitate the movement of goods and services, and strengthen trade and investment relations between the two countries.
Beyond investment and air connectivity, the NACCIMA delegation identified technology transfer and technical training as critical areas of potential cooperation. It encouraged GCAM to explore opportunities to equip young Nigerians with specialised aviation maintenance skills, leveraging the company’s technical expertise and industry experience.
In her remarks, Ambassador Abbas reaffirmed the Consulate’s commitment to promoting initiatives that advance diplomatic, commercial and economic relations between Nigeria and China. She noted that despite the longstanding relationship between both countries, significant opportunities remain for expanding cooperation to deliver mutual economic benefits.
The engagement underscores NACCIMA’s continued efforts to connect Nigerian businesses with international investors, facilitate strategic partnerships and position the country to benefit from emerging global investment opportunities.
Edited by Rosemary Aiyenale
Source: Adapted from a press statement issued by NACCIMA and signed by Mrs Madinat Adigun-Oladotun, National Public Relations Officer, on November 6, 2026.
