The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported that as of end-April 2025, a total of $1.3 billion in airline funds remains blocked from repatriation by various governments.
Although still a significant figure, this marks a 25% improvement from the $1.7 billion recorded in October 2024, as countries begin to address long-standing financial backlogs affecting airline operations.
IATA revealed that 10 countries account for 80% of the total blocked funds, or approximately $1.03 billion. However, Nigeria is no longer on the list, having cleared more than $700 million in previously trapped airline revenues by the end of last year.
At its peak in June 2023, Nigeria’s blocked funds hit $850 million, causing serious operational and financial constraints for international airlines operating in the country. But by April 2024, 98% of these funds had been cleared, according to IATA, with only $19 million remaining due to ongoing Central Bank verification of claims filed by commercial banks.
The development is seen as a positive signal for Nigeria’s aviation and investment climate, especially at a time when foreign investor confidence remains key to broader economic recovery.
