“NiMet Workers Suspend Strike After Ministerial Assurances on Wage, Welfare Demands”

In a significant development for Nigeria’s aviation sector, unions under the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) have suspended their strike action until May 13, 2025, following the personal intervention of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK). The resolution was reached after a crucial meeting between the Minister and representatives of the aggrieved unions — the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP). Confirming the decision, Comrade Aba Ocheme, National Secretary of NUATE, said: “We have agreed to suspend the ongoing strike in recognition of the…

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Aviation Boost for North Central Nigeria as Minna Airport Gains Alternative Hub Status

The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, has officially designated the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna, as the alternative airport to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The announcement was made during the formal inauguration of Overland Airways’ new flight operations at the Minna airport. Speaking at the landmark event, Minister Keyamo highlighted the strategic importance and operational readiness of the airport. “This is an international runway capable of handling aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and the Triple Seven. It is surprising this facility has remained underutilized for so long. By the authority vested…

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Keyamo Backs Financial Reforms as ICAN Launches Aviation Chapter in Nigeria

In a strategic move to strengthen financial accountability within Nigeria’s aviation industry, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, has emphasized the importance of sound financial management for the sector’s growth and sustainability. Speaking in Lagos at the official inauguration of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Aviation Chapter, Keyamo described the new chapter as a crucial link between technical operations and financial governance in the country’s aviation ecosystem. The event, themed “Flightpath to Financial Excellence: Integrating Strategy, Systems, and Standards”, marks a significant milestone in the sector’s drive toward financial transparency and global best…

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Keyamo Backs Air Tanzania’s Plan for Direct Route to Nigeria

The Federal Government of Nigeria is taking significant steps to enhance regional air connectivity, as the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, welcomed a delegation from the Tanzania High Commission in Abuja on Tuesday, April 9, 2025. Leading the Tanzanian delegation was Mrs. Judica Elfadhili Nagunwa, Head of Chancery, who conveyed her country’s intent to deepen bilateral ties, with a strong focus on launching direct flights between Nigeria and Tanzania via Air Tanzania. Mrs. Nagunwa highlighted the strategic importance of this initiative, stating that direct air links would serve as a catalyst for increased trade, tourism,…

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Aviation Minister Pledges Climate Reforms, Seeks Legislative Backing for Greener Skies

In a decisive move toward environmental accountability, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has pledged that Nigeria’s aviation industry will champion green innovation and sustainable practices in the face of intensifying global climate change demands. Keyamo made the declaration while receiving members of the House of Representatives Committee on Climate Change during a courtesy visit to his ministry in Abuja. He stressed the need for the sector to evolve in line with global environmental benchmarks such as the Paris Agreement and the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). “Our growing…

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Algeria-Nigeria Air Link Takes Off: Air Algeria Launches Direct Flights Between Algiers, Abuja

In a major boost to diplomatic and economic ties, Air Algerie will launch its inaugural direct flight service between Algiers and Abuja on April 6, 2025. This milestone follows the successful implementation of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Algeria, further strengthening regional cooperation and connectivity. Operated by Algeria’s national carrier using a Boeing 737 aircraft, the new route is expected to enhance trade, tourism, and investment opportunities between both nations. This initiative underscores the shared commitment of Nigeria and Algeria to deepening bilateral collaboration in aviation, commerce, and cultural exchange. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledges…

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NCAA Pledges Enhanced Compliance with ICAO Standards After Safety Review

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reaffirmed its commitment to fully implementing the State Safety Programme (SSP) as part of efforts to enhance aviation safety across the country. Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, made this commitment at the closing ceremony of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) West and Central Africa (WACAF) Regional Office’s Assistance Mission to Nigeria. The event, held from March 24 to 28, 2025, at the NCAA corporate headquarters in Abuja, was a significant step towards bridging gaps in Nigeria’s compliance with global aviation safety standards. Capt. Najomo acknowledged the review conducted by…

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Aviation Unions Threaten Nationwide Strike Over Assaults on FAAN Staff at Lagos Airport

Aviation unions have issued a stern warning to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) management, demanding immediate action against the repeated assaults—both physical and psychological—on its staff by customs officers at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos. In a letter dated March 7, 2025, and addressed to FAAN’s Managing Director, the unions—comprising the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), and the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN)—expressed their outrage over the continued harassment of FAAN personnel. The unions, represented by their General Secretaries, Comrades Ocheme Aba (NUATE), Abdulrazak…

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Nigeria, Canada Signs Air Travel Pact to Boost Connectivity, Diplomacy

In a strategic move to enhance international air travel and strengthen diplomatic ties, Nigeria and Canada have signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA). The agreement was formalized in Abuja by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FICArb (UK), on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria. Keyamo clarified that the agreement is a code-share arrangement, rather than a full bilateral air services pact. Under this model, multiple airlines can sell seats on the same flights operated by partner carriers, allowing passengers to book flights under different airline codes while ensuring greater connectivity. He noted…

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NiMet, Gain Strengthen Ties to Tackle Malnutrition with Climate Intelligence

The persistent challenge of malnutrition in Nigerian communities is receiving renewed attention as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) strengthen their partnership. At a strategic meeting held at NiMet headquarters in Abuja on Friday, March 21, 2025, both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to leveraging weather and climate intelligence to improve nutrition and agricultural resilience. Professor Charles Anosike, Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, emphasized the critical link between soil health, weather patterns, and nutrition. “Nutrition begins with soil health, and weather plays a crucial role in determining soil quality and plant…

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