Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo says the Federal government is committed in promoting the growth of local operators.
Keyamo made this known in lagos, at the launch of a book “100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria: History, Issues and Prospects ” written bÿ veteran Aviation journalist, and Aviation Editor, NewTelegraph, Wole Shadare
He revealed that the Federal government has formally announced a shift in its aviation strategy, stressing that more attention will be given to policies that could strengthen local airlines, as the Federal government will not fund the national carrier project any more.
He said ” We have shifted focus to ensure growth and development for local operators through our policies ”
Keyamo stated that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is focused on creating policies and the enabling environment for domestic operators.
He said, “Recent policy reforms, including revised insurance regulations for leased aircraft, have made aircraft acquisition easier and are expected to help bring down airfares across the country.
“Our focus has shifted,” Keyamo stated. “We are now committed to promoting the growth of local operators through targeted policies.”
He also noted efforts to train and retrain air traffic personnel, address revenue leakages, and enhance efficiency within the aviation sector.
Keyamo also disclosed that nearly all foreign airlines operating in Nigeria now comply with the government’s directive to use local catering services for in-flight meals.
Keyamo expressed dismay at the deteriorating condition of the old terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA lagos, as it has remained unchanged since 1997, adding that plans are underway to construct a new airport, as this is subject to presidential approval, as there is an urgent need for a completely new building.
Managing Director Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, while speaking at the book launch, highlighted the sector’s growth.
She reported that Nigeria currently boasts 39 certified airline operators, 31 airports, and over 2,100 licensed pilots.
She noted that the aviation industry contributes about $1.7bn to Nigeria’s GDP, but acknowledged that there are existing challenges such as outdated infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and financing gaps but urged investors to view these as opportunities for development.
She said, ” Nevertheless, this journey has not been devoid of turbulence. Upon Nigeria’s attainment of independence in 1960, we were faced with a pivotal question: How could we convert colonial-era infrastructure into a sovereign aviation powerhouse? Our national carrier, Nigeria Airways, emerged as a response, yet it soon faced challenges stemming from mismanagement and operational inefficiencies. By the early 2000s, we found ourselves at a crossroads—adapt or risk obsolescence.
“This juncture precipitated a remarkable transformation. The private sector took the initiative, introducing fresh capital, contemporary management practices, and a competitive spirit. Companies such as Air Peace and Arik Air did not merely fill the void—they revolutionised our aviation landscape.
She said “From our colonial beginnings to our current status as West Africa’s largest aviation market, every milestone narrates a story of determination and opportunity ”
“Nigeria has emerged as a testament to the efficacy of market-driven solutions. Our aviation sector now contributes approximately $1.7 billion to our GDP. Private airlines are connecting our cities with unprecedented efficiency, and international carriers increasingly regard Nigeria as a critical market. Last year, over 16 million passengers traversed our domestic terminals, while international passenger numbers exceeded 3.5 million. These figures are indeed impressive, yet there remains substantial potential for growth.”
She commended the author of the book, Wole Shadare stating that the forthcoming chapter of Nigerian aviation will be authored by those who recognized that our skies are not merely thoroughfare for aircraft as they are highways to prosperity.
The author of the book, Wole Shadare say the 25 chapter book captures the history, challenges, and future potential of Nigeria’s aviation sector over the past century
