By Nafisat Makinde
In a bold move to transform Nigeria’s aviation sector, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, unveiled a series of strategic reforms at a strategic aviation development event held on February 28, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, GRA Ikeja, Lagos. Keyamo warned foreign airlines that failure to patronize local catering services would result in rejection of their summer flight schedules.
“Until they show me agreements demonstrating partnerships with our local caterers, I will not approve the summer schedule for foreign airlines.”
“If they choose to leave Nigeria because of food, they may do so—but our airlines will fly the routes,” Keyamo stated.
The event, themed “Transforming the Aviation Industry Through Strategic Partnerships: Advancing Airport Concessions for Sustainable Development,” was attended by top stakeholders, including:
Sen. Abdulfatai Buhari, Chairman, Senate Committee on Aviation
Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development
Capt. Chris Ona Najomo, Director General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)
Mrs. Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku, Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)
Prof. Charles Anosike, Director General, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet)
Engr. Ahmed Umar Farouk, Director General, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA)
Mr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, Chairman and CEO, Air Peace
Dr. Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, Registrar, African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU)
The Minister’s announcements included:
- Mandatory Local Catering for Foreign Airlines: Foreign airlines must partner with Nigerian catering services to secure approval for their summer flight schedules.
- Infrastructure Development and Financial Reforms: Upgrades to Lagos Airport, resolution of trapped airline funds, and seamless forex access for airlines.
- Expansion of Airline Operations and International Connectivity: Reopening of the Lagos-London route, support for domestic airlines, and dry leasing agreements.
- Workforce Development and Regional Expansion: Increased funding for aviation workforce training and capacity building, and upgrades to Maiduguri Airport.
The Registrar of the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Dr. Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, emphasized the institution’s commitment to aviation education, industry collaboration, and international partnerships. AAAU’s vision is to deliver world-class education and pioneering research that aligns with the evolving demands of the global aviation industry.
“As Nigeria’s premier aviation university, AAAU remains committed to delivering world-class education and pioneering research that aligns with the evolving demands of the global aviation industry. Our ability to attract international students and establish strategic global partnerships underscores Nigeria’s growing influence in the aerospace sector,” Dr. Abdullahi stated.
It is a good one becouse it will develop the local business and there will be improvement in our econonic.
It is a good one becouse it will develop the local business and there will be improvement our economic
That’s a good turn that deserves another, as the saying goes in the law of reciprocity. It’s good that our Able Minister of Aviation understands these rules of the thumb in dealing with other international airlines because ‘the measure they give out to us should be the same measure we reciprocate them’ – That’s perfect act of diplomacy in international affairs.
I hope they also care this much for Nigerian students, or is the school just for international student?
It is beneficial because they are making an effort to add value to our resources, which will significantly contribute to boosting our economy.