Strengthening local airlines over a national carrier is now the Federal Government’s flight path, Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo declared in Lagos.
At the launch of 100 Years of Civil Aviation In Nigeria by Wole Shadare, Keyamo revealed that government funding will no longer fuel the national carrier project.
Strengthening Local Airlines
Keyamo stated that President Tinubu’s administration actively drives policies that strengthen homegrown airlines.
For example, the government revised insurance regulations on leased aircraft, making it easier for local carriers to acquire planes and slash ticket prices.
Additionally, the ministry has trained air traffic operators and closed revenue leakages to improve efficiency.
Backing Local Services
Furthermore, Keyamo confirmed that foreign airlines now patronise local caterers for in-flight meals, following his directive—an initiative that empowers domestic service providers.
He also criticised the deteriorating Murtala Muhammed International Airport’s old terminal, which has remained untouched since 1997.
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He pledged to seek presidential approval to demolish and rebuild it as a smart terminal.
Growth Of Nigeria’s Aviation Sector
Meanwhile, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, highlighted the sector’s growth.
She noted that Nigeria hosts 39 certified operators, 31 airports, and over 2,100 licensed pilots.
She revealed that the aviation sector now contributes $1.7 billion to Nigeria’s GDP.
Turning Challenges Into Opportunities
Despite ongoing challenges such as infrastructure gaps and regulatory hurdles, Kuku encouraged investors to view them as opportunities for innovation and growth.
National Carrier Plans Shelved
Keyamo clarified that the government has deliberately shifted away from establishing a national carrier, choosing instead to channel resources and support into strengthening existing domestic airlines for long-term sustainability.
Celebrating A Century Of Aviation
Finally, Wole Shadare presented his 25-chapter book, which chronicles a century of aviation in Nigeria and provides valuable insights for researchers and industry players.
