The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially abandoned plans to revive a national carrier, according to Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo. Speaking at a book launch in Lagos, Keyamo emphasized a policy shift towards supporting and strengthening domestic airline operators.
He highlighted ongoing reforms, including revised insurance regulations on leased aircraft, aimed at improving accessibility and reducing airfares. Additionally, he revealed plans to demolish and rebuild the old terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, citing its dilapidated state.
Keyamo also announced improvements in the sector, including the training of air traffic operators, enhanced revenue collection, and new mandates requiring foreign airlines to use local caterers. Meanwhile, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, noted significant growth in the aviation sector, with 39 certified operators, 31 airports, and over 2,100 licensed pilots. She reported that the sector contributes $1.7 billion to the nation’s GDP and serves millions of passengers annually, underscoring its strategic importance.
Despite challenges such as poor infrastructure and financing hurdles, Kuku affirmed the sector’s strong potential. She traced the evolution from state-run Nigeria Airways to a vibrant, private sector-led industry, driven by airlines like Air Peace and Arik Air. The event also featured the unveiling of a new book, 100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria, authored by Wole Shadare, which documents the century-long journey of the country’s aviation industry and offers insights for future development.
