ABUJA — Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has announced that the country is implementing strategic measures to achieve aviation self-sufficiency, as Africa’s air transport sector continues to witness rapid growth.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ engagement session in Abuja on Friday, Keyamo emphasized that the Federal Government is committed to repositioning the aviation industry for sustainability, efficiency, and global competitiveness. According to him, Nigeria’s focus is shifting from dependency on foreign expertise and maintenance facilities toward developing indigenous capacity across critical areas of aviation operations.
A Vision for Aviation Independence
Keyamo explained that the ministry’s agenda aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope initiative, which prioritizes infrastructure development, job creation, and technological advancement. The minister revealed that the government’s aviation master plan aims to make Nigeria a regional hub for air transport, aircraft maintenance, manufacturing, and training.
“Our goal is to make Nigeria not just a destination for airlines but a production, maintenance, and training center for Africa,” Keyamo said. “We are moving from being consumers of aviation services to producers of world-class expertise and infrastructure.”
He noted that achieving aviation self-sufficiency involves a holistic approach — from modernizing airport infrastructure and upgrading maintenance facilities to fostering local talent through training institutions and public-private partnerships.
Aircraft Maintenance and MRO Development
One of the ministry’s key priorities is establishing Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities within Nigeria to reduce the billions of dollars spent annually on aircraft servicing abroad. Presently, Nigerian airlines send their fleets to Europe, the Middle East, or Ethiopia for major maintenance checks — a cost that has significantly affected operational efficiency and profitability.
Keyamo disclosed that discussions are ongoing with both local and international investors to establish a world-class MRO center in Lagos and Abuja. He noted that once operational, the facilities would not only serve Nigerian carriers but also attract aircraft from other African nations.
“Every time our airlines fly their aircraft to Europe or Asia for maintenance, we lose millions in foreign exchange. Establishing domestic MRO facilities will save costs, create jobs, and retain technical expertise within our borders,” he said.
He added that the government is also working closely with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to streamline regulatory approvals and ensure compliance with international safety standards.
Reviving Local Airlines and Strengthening Fleet Capacity
Nigeria’s aviation industry, despite its potential, has struggled with the collapse of several domestic airlines due to high operational costs, foreign exchange challenges, and infrastructural deficits. Keyamo said the government is determined to reverse this trend by supporting viable carriers through policy reforms and access to affordable financing.
He revealed that the ministry is collaborating with financial institutions and international partners to provide credit facilities for fleet renewal, while also exploring new bilateral air service agreements that prioritize Nigerian carriers.
“We want to see Nigerian airlines dominate African routes again,” Keyamo stated. “The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has created immense opportunities for intra-African travel, and Nigeria must not be left behind.”
He noted that with over 200 million people and a growing middle class, Nigeria has the market advantage to build a robust aviation industry that supports both passenger and cargo operations.
Infrastructure Modernization Across Airports
Keyamo also highlighted ongoing efforts to modernize airport infrastructure across the country. He said the ministry has initiated the second phase of terminal expansion projects in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano to improve passenger experience and enhance operational efficiency.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has been directed to ensure that all airports meet global service standards, while emphasis is being placed on automation, security upgrades, and efficient passenger processing.
He added that the government is working to address critical power, runway, and navigation challenges affecting several airports, noting that the goal is to make every international and domestic airport in Nigeria a viable economic hub.
Human Capital and Technology Development
To sustain aviation growth, Keyamo underscored the importance of building human capacity through training and research. He disclosed that the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria has been restructured to offer advanced programs in aeronautical engineering, drone technology, and flight operations.
“We are investing in the next generation of Nigerian aviation professionals,” he said. “Our young engineers, pilots, and technicians must be trained to international standards so that Nigeria can export aviation expertise to the rest of Africa.”
He further noted that the ministry is collaborating with technology partners to introduce digital air traffic management systems and modern weather forecasting tools, improving safety and reducing flight delays.
Promoting Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)
The minister emphasized that the government alone cannot fund the level of investment required to transform the sector. He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to promoting public-private partnerships for airport concession, aircraft leasing, training, and MRO facilities.
He disclosed that several international investors have expressed interest in partnering with Nigeria following recent policy clarity and improved transparency in the aviation sector.
“Our focus is on creating an enabling environment for private investment. With proper regulation and accountability, the private sector can drive sustainable growth,” Keyamo said.
Regional and Global Ambitions
Nigeria’s push for aviation self-sufficiency also ties into its regional aspirations. The country seeks to strengthen its presence under the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) initiative, which promotes liberalization of air transport among African states.
Keyamo stressed that the government’s efforts would position Nigeria as a key player in regional connectivity, supporting trade, tourism, and investment flows across Africa.
He added that the ministry is working with the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to ensure that Nigeria’s policies align with global aviation best practices.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
Despite the progress, Keyamo acknowledged that the industry still faces challenges such as high fuel costs, forex shortages, and inadequate infrastructure. However, he expressed optimism that ongoing reforms would yield positive results in the near future.
“The journey toward self-sufficiency is not without hurdles, but with determination and collaboration, we will get there,” he assured.
He urged stakeholders — including airlines, aviation unions, and investors — to support the government’s reform agenda to ensure long-term sustainability.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s aviation sector stands at a crucial turning point. With clear policy direction, renewed investor confidence, and the government’s commitment to capacity development, the dream of achieving aviation self-sufficiency appears increasingly attainable.
As Festus Keyamo puts it, “Nigeria is ready to take its rightful place as the aviation powerhouse of Africa.”
