In a landmark move to bolster Nigeria’s aviation industry, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has announced significant strides in sectoral development through strategic collaborations and policy reforms.
Speaking at the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series, organized by the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation on March 13, 2025, at the National Press Centre, Abuja, Keyamo highlighted key achievements aimed at enhancing global competitiveness and sustainability in Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
One of the most notable advancements, he revealed, is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Boeing Airline, paving the way for the establishment of a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Nigeria. This initiative, he said, will reduce operational costs for airlines, create employment opportunities for aviation professionals, and strengthen the country’s aircraft maintenance capacity.
In line with Nigeria’s commitment to improving aviation safety and operational efficiency, Keyamo announced that Boeing and Cranfield University, UK, have commenced training domestic airlines as part of the agreements signed in Seattle. The training program is expected to enhance safety culture and improve operational standards within the industry.
Further strengthening Nigeria’s global aviation standing, the Minister noted that compliance with the Cape Town Convention on aircraft dry-leasing has seen significant progress. The Aviation Working Group (co-chaired by Boeing and Airbus) upgraded Nigeria’s compliance rating from 49.5% to 70.5%, and the signing of the Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorization (IDERA) rules within 24 hours further boosted the country’s Cape Town Convention (CTC) index from 70.5% to 75.5%.
Keyamo also announced the upgrading of Borno Airport to full international status, enhancing air connectivity and economic prospects in Nigeria’s northeastern region. Additionally, through a Public-Private Partnership and inter-agency cooperation with the Nigerian Immigration Service, the Arrival Hall at Lagos International Airport’s Wing E has been remodeled, providing a state-of-the-art facility for an improved passenger experience.
As part of the government’s long-term vision for the aviation sector, the Minister revealed plans to introduce the Fly Nigeria Act in the National Assembly. The legislation, once passed, will prioritize Nigerian airlines for government-sponsored air travel, strengthening local carriers and aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency and Economic Stability
Also addressing the media, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris (FNIPR), reiterated President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement. He emphasized that the Ministerial Press Briefing Series provides an avenue for the public to stay informed on government initiatives.
Idris highlighted key economic reforms, noting that while the transition has posed challenges, the policies are beginning to yield positive outcomes. He cited improvements such as reduced food prices, a stabilized exchange rate, and a gradual decline in petroleum costs, reflecting the government’s efforts toward economic recovery.
Calling for national unity, Idris urged religious leaders to use the sacred period of Ramadan and Lent to offer prayers for Nigeria’s peace and progress. He assured Nigerians that President Tinubu is steering the country with a strong sense of responsibility and dedication to national welfare.
Commending the media for their role in fostering democracy and national development, Idris emphasized their contribution to ensuring Nigerians remain well-informed about government policies and programs.
As Nigeria continues to navigate its transformation journey, the aviation sector’s latest milestones signal a new era of growth, investment, and global competitiveness for the country.
