By Joy Baba-Yesufu
The Federal Government has officially shelved plans to fund a national carrier, choosing instead to concentrate on policies that empower indigenous airlines to thrive. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, made this disclosure during the public presentation of “100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria: History, Issues and Prospects”, authored by aviation journalist Wole Shadare, in Lagos.
Keyamo emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to strengthening Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem through policy reforms rather than pursuing the costly and controversial Nigeria Air project. “We have shifted focus to ensure growth and development for local operators through our policies,” he said, adding that government support would prioritize sustainability and competitiveness for private operators.
Highlighting recent interventions, Keyamo noted the removal of regulatory bottlenecks, particularly the revision of insurance requirements for leased aircraft , a policy he said would ease aircraft acquisition and ultimately lower flight costs for passengers. He also revealed that all foreign airlines now comply with a directive to patronize local in-flight catering services, boosting domestic supply chains.
On infrastructure, the minister expressed disappointment over the dilapidated state of the old terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, which has seen no major upgrades since 1997. “That terminal must go. We need a new one,” he stated, revealing plans to seek presidential approval for a smart terminal that aligns with global standards.
Also speaking at the event, Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), noted that Nigeria’s aviation sector has recorded notable growth, with 39 certified airline operators, 31 airports, and over 2,100 licensed pilots. She pegged the sector’s contribution to GDP at $1.7 billion, describing it as a vital pillar of national connectivity and economic potential.
Despite persistent challenges, including infrastructure deficits and regulatory gaps, Kuku emphasized that the sector holds enormous potential for investment and transformation.
The author, Wole Shadare, described his 25-chapter book as a comprehensive chronicle of Nigeria’s aviation journey, designed to serve as a reference for scholars, policymakers, and stakeholders eager to understand the industry’s century-long evolution and its future prospects.
