An energy and aviation expert, Mr Dare Osamo, has commended the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the recent signing of the Cape Town Convention, describing it as a strategic policy decision that aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and signals a new phase of growth for Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Osamo, who is the Managing Director of Impact Energy, said the decision, executed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, would significantly improve aircraft leasing conditions for local airlines, unlock new investment opportunities, and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s aviation market.
According to him, the Cape Town Convention provides a globally recognised legal framework that protects the interests of aircraft lessors and financiers, particularly in asset recovery and enforcement of rights.
Its implementation, he noted, addresses a critical structural challenge that has historically limited the growth of indigenous airlines.
“This is a clear demonstration of purposeful governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Osamo said.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda is about removing systemic bottlenecks and restoring investor confidence, and the signing of the Cape Town Convention fits squarely within that vision.”
He explained that access to aircraft through leasing has been one of the most difficult hurdles for Nigerian operators, largely due to perceived legal and regulatory risks. With the convention now in place, Osamo said local airlines would be able to lease aircraft more easily, on better terms, and at lower costs.
“This development makes aircraft leasing easier, more effective, and more predictable for Nigerian operators,” he said. “As a result, we will see organic growth in local fleets, improved service delivery, and a more competitive aviation industry.”
Osamo added that the expansion of airline fleets would have far-reaching economic implications. He said increased aircraft numbers would drive demand for aircraft parts, maintenance services, aviation consumables, and jet fuel, creating opportunities across the aviation and energy value chains.
“As fleets grow, the supporting industries grow alongside them,” he said. “From engineers and technicians to fuel suppliers and logistics providers, this will naturally create more jobs and deepen local capacity.”
He further noted that improved access to aircraft would allow airlines to open new domestic and regional routes, particularly to underserved destinations, thereby improving connectivity, stimulating commerce, and supporting national development.
Osamo also highlighted the role of the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, SAN, in driving reforms aimed at revamping the sector. He said Keyamo’s engagement with international aviation stakeholders, emphasis on regulatory clarity, and commitment to restoring credibility to Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem have laid the groundwork for reforms such as the Cape Town Convention.
“The minister has been deliberate in addressing legacy issues in the aviation sector,” Osamo said. “From improving Nigeria’s global aviation standing to engaging lessors, financiers, and international partners, this signing reflects a broader reform agenda already underway.”
He described the move as a foundational policy shift that, if properly implemented and supported with complementary reforms, could reposition Nigeria as a more attractive destination for aircraft leasing, aviation services, and regional air transport operations.
Osamo urged continued collaboration between government, regulators, and private sector stakeholders to ensure the full benefits of the convention are realised.
“The signing of the Cape Town Convention is not just a legal exercise; it is an economic enabler,” he said. “It sends a strong message that Nigeria is open for business and serious about building a sustainable, growth-driven aviation industry under the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
