By Abubkar Yunusa
Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development, has directed all Nigerian airlines to give serving military personnel priority boarding on all flights ahead of first and business class passengers.
Keyamo announced the policy in Abuja during a stakeholder meeting on preparations for Nigeria’s aviation centenary celebration and the inaugural Nigerian international air show, scheduled to take place from December 2 to 4, 2025.
Explaining the rationale behind the directive, the minister said the decision was aimed at recognising the sacrifices and dedication of members of the Nigerian armed forces.
“This is what is done in other countries, and it is not a bad thing to emulate. It is the least we can do to recognise our serving military personnel,” he said.
In his remarks, Ibrahim Kana, permanent secretary of the ministry, said the directive would be immediately forwarded to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for implementation.
He described the policy as “brilliant and symbolic”, adding that it would serve as a visible gesture of national appreciation for the military.
On April 8, Air Peace, Nigeria’s flag carrier, announced it will be prioritising military personnel, passengers with wheelchairs or special needs, and business class passengers in its new boarding process.
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