The Nation Newspaper

Category: Aviation

  • NCAA Certifies Aeroskye School of Aviation as an Aviation Training Organization

    NCAA Certifies Aeroskye School of Aviation as an Aviation Training Organization

    Aeroskye School of Aviation, the first aviation training institution in Benin City Edo state, has recently achieved a remarkable milestone by receiving its Approved Training Organization (ATO) certificate from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). This significant recognition, marked by certificate number NCAA/ATO/AA/035, positions Aeroskye as a key player in the aviation education sector. The certification aligns with Part IX, Section 30(4)(L) of the Civil Aviation Act of 2006. With this approval, Aeroskye is now authorized to offer a diverse range of courses, including Basic Flight Dispatch, Advanced Flight Dispatch, and comprehensive training for Cabin Crew covering initial, refresher and conversion on B737 CL, EMB 135/145 and other professional programs.

    The formal presentation of the certificate was conducted at the NCAA office in Abuja. This presentation followed an extensive evaluation process that scrutinized Aeroskye’s facilities, training programs, and equipment to ensure compliance with the stringent standards set forth by the NCAA. The rigorous assessment process underscores the commitment of both the institution and the regulatory body to uphold high standards in aviation training.

    Read Also: Eight key reforms in Aviation, Aerospace sector under Keyamo

    In a statement following the presentation, Amb. Daniel Ogidi, Director of Studies and Accountable Manager of Aeroskye School of Aviation, expressed his sincere gratitude to the NCAA for their thorough inspection and subsequent approval. He also acknowledged the dedication and teamwork of his staff, emphasizing that their collective efforts were crucial in achieving this significant milestone. “Aeroskye School of Aviation is dedicated to providing high-quality education and training,” Amb. Ogidi stated. “Our courses are meticulously designed with detailed content and practical hands-on training to ensure our graduates are fully equipped for successful careers in the global aviation sector.”

    Despite being established less than a year ago, Aeroskye has made impressive strides in aviation training. The school is proud to have successfully navigated the rigorous evaluation process set forth by the NCAA. With a vision to become a globally recognized leader in aviation education, Aeroskye’s core values—excellence, integrity, innovation, and safety—will guide its operations as it continues to uphold high standards in training.

    This certification not only enhances Aeroskye’s reputation but also significantly contributes to developing skilled professionals in Nigeria’s aviation industry. As it moves forward, Aeroskye School of Aviation is poised to make a substantial impact on both local and international aviation sectors. The institution’s commitment to quality education will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping the future of aviation professionals in Nigeria and beyond.

  • Air Peace partners Boeing, Cranfield varsity to boost operational safety

    Air Peace partners Boeing, Cranfield varsity to boost operational safety

    Air Peace has partnered with The Boeing Company and Cranfield University in the UK to strengthen its safety culture and operational efficiency through world-class expertise and resources. 

    Under the auspices of the Boeing Global Learning Institute (BGLI), the partnership hosted a five-day in-person classroom training titled: “Advanced Leadership in Safety Excellence.”

    The programme brought together executives, department heads, and management leaders from Air Peace to foster leadership skills in safety and operational management, according to the airline’s spokesman, Dr Ejike Ndiulo. 

    Dr. Ndiulo highlighted that the collaboration stems from a shared commitment between Air Peace and Boeing to shape the future of aviation leadership. 

    Harry Magui, Senior Organizational Consultant and Programme Manager at BGLI emphasised Boeing’s dedication to supporting continuous learning for aviation partners.

    He stated: “The Boeing Global Learning Institute designs and delivers numerous programs tailored to the needs of both emerging and established leaders among our partners.” 

    This initiative underscores Air Peace’s commitment to adopting global best practices in aviation safety and leadership development.

    Alluding to the great work Air Peace has done in making safety a pre-condition rather than just a priority, Magui said: “We’re here to partner with our great partner, Air Peace who have been phenomenal in advancing the Aviation Industry in Nigeria, so we are here to support them to harness more opportunities in the future with the Advanced Leadership in Safety Excellence Training for all its top leadership within the organization.”

    For Prof Graham Braithwaite, Head of Aerospace, Cranfield University, “This collaboration ensured that the training directly addresses the challenges Air Peace faces, culminating in real-world capstone projects that would have a lasting impact.”

    Read Also: Air Peace: Bird strike forced our aircraft’s return to ramp

    Reinforcing Prof. Braithwaite’s position, Dr. Fabian Steinmann, Lecturer, Organisational Resilience and Change, Cranfield School of Management, who was excited at the great progress Air Peace made over the years said that they are happy to learn and share knowledge and find ways to strengthen the system, making it robust and flexible to adapt to the ever-changing environment.

    “Safety is at the heart of everything we do at Cranfield so the privilege we have is that we travelled around the world, picked up the good practices, learned more about the culture and the operation in various countries so we’re here to facilitate that exchange with Nigeria and Air Peace to see how we share some of the good practices and lessons learned from all around the world and translate them into their operation.”

    The programme’s curriculum was carefully crafted to blend theoretical insights with hands-on practical applications. In the first phase, discussions led by Prof. Braithwaite and Dr. Steinmann set the stage by aligning Air Peace leadership’s operational insights with the program’s objectives.

    Phase two provided participants with direct access to experts from Cranfield University and Boeing, equipping them with advanced tools and strategies for safety leadership. Beyond the classroom, participants were empowered to implement their learnings within their teams, creating a ripple effect that would strengthen safety systems across the organization.

    “This class is quite essential and we’re lucky to have our resource persons impact knowledge on us. It is a well-structured training and especially for Air Peace because of where we are now and where we hope to go in the future. The whole essence of this class is to reinforce what we know before and be exposed to other avenues of learning. The aviation industry is ever-changing and dynamic, and Air Peace has to be abreast of such developments,” says Captain Godfrey Ogbogu, Safety Manager at Air Peace.

    He noted that Air Peace’s commitment to safety and operational excellence has never been more evident, adding that the partnership has not only cultivated a deeper understanding of safety leadership but also laid the groundwork for a more resilient, accountable, and innovative workforce, poised to tackle the evolving challenges of the aviation industry.

    The programme emphasised accountability through two follow-up review sessions, ensuring that participants continued to develop their leadership skills and advance their safety projects. This dual focus on personal leadership growth and organizational impact ensured that safety remained at the forefront of Air Peace’s operational strategy.

  • Onyema canvasses collaboration to fix airlines’ challenges 

    Onyema canvasses collaboration to fix airlines’ challenges 

    Vice President of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and Chairman of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema has sought collaboration among stakeholders in order to address the challenges faced by indigenous carriers.

    Onyema said without such bond, the commitment  by stakeholders to further advance the growth for the air transport industry will not be achieved.

    He spoke while been recognized with the prestigious Aviation Industry Trailblazer for the Decade, 2024 award at the recently concluded  International Air Transport Conference in Abuja. 

    The award, presented by the  Director of Corporate Services at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Ali Yu Ibrahim  celebrated  Dr. Onyema’s outstanding contributions to the aviation sector.

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     Onyema said the organisers have been instrumental in revolutionizing Nigeria’s air transport landscape, for his visionary leadership and dedication to improving air travel accessibility, safety, and customer experience in Africa.

     Under his stewardship,  the organisers said Air Peace has grown into a leading airline in West Africa, setting benchmarks for operational excellence.

    In his acceptance speech, Onyema expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasising that it is a testament to his team’s hard work and resilience.

     He said: “This award is not just for me; it is for every member of the Air Peace family and for the entire Nigerian aviation industry.”

  • Flymate unveils travel app

    Flymate unveils travel app

    Flymate Travel Limited, a leading provider of innovative travel solutions, has announced the launch of Visadoc, a travel app designed to simplify and enhance users’ travel experiences worldwide.

    Visadoc empowers travelers to take control of their journey, from visa applications to booking accommodations and flights. The app offers a range of unique features and functionalities, including seamless visa application process: users can easily apply for visas, complete necessary documentation, and schedule biometric appointments, all within the app; personalized travel recommendations: The app leverages advanced algorithms to provide tailored recommendations based on individual preferences and interests; secure electronic payments: users can conveniently pay fees and other charges through secure electronic payment; and real-time travel updates: Stay informed with real-time updates on flight statuses, weather conditions, and travel advisories.

    Chief Executive Officer of Flymate Travel Limited, Gbenga Badmus, said: “Visadoc is designed to offer customized services to the end users. With its help, applicants can apply with ease by doing it themselves end to end. By completing the documentation process and waiting for the biometric capturing invite without putting a physical face to the agent’s office.”

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    Visadoc is available for download on the App Store and Google Play Store. The app is designed to cater to a wide range of travelers, including families, individuals, and business professionals.

     “Families, Individuals with their specific needs and preferences, are an essential target audience for travel brands. Family travelers look for visas to destinations and accommodations that cater to the interests and safety of their children. They prioritize family-friendly activities, spacious accommodations, and convenient amenities,” said Abdullahi Yusuf, Project Manager at Flymate Travel Limited.

    The target markets for a public travel tracking app can include frequent travelers, commuters, tourists, and individuals who must obtain their visa.

    Flymate Travel Limited is committed to leveraging technology to enhance the travel experience and provide exceptional customer service. By utilizing data and user feedback, the company will continue to refine and improve the app to meet the evolving needs of travelers.

  • ‘Improved global rating boosting aviation’

    ‘Improved global rating boosting aviation’

    Stakeholders in the aviation industry have lauded Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on the recent improvement in Nigeria’s global rating.

    They this has boosted airline operators’ confidence in the country’s air transport sector. Nigeria was recently removed from the global aviation watchlist after its aviation rating rose to 75.5 per cent.

    Nigeria’s aviation rating had jumped from 49 per cent to 70.5 per cent after the Federal Government signed the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction in September 2024.

    The new global rating allows Nigerian airlines to access dry lease aircraft, thereby enhancing their operational capabilities.

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    Speaking on the development and other issues in the aviation sector, the stakeholders, under the aegis of Good Governance Advocates of Nigeria, GGAN, commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the improvement in Nigeria’s global aviation compliance score.

    Addressing journalists in Abuja,  Executive Director of GGAN, Dr. Opialu Fabian, noted that operators now have more confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector, a development which he said has created an environment for business development.

    GGAN further observed that the aviation sector has witnessed a spectacular turnaround, with notable milestones achieved in the past year under the leadership of the minister, Festus Keyamo.

    The stakeholders observed that the minister’s focused leadership and intentional reforms have fostered improved trade, and economic expansion and development.

    They added that the minister’s proactive interaction with aviation sector stakeholders has guaranteed inclusivity and conformity to international best practices.

    They equally noted that the Tinubu administration’s commitment to safety in the aviation sector has strengthened Nigeria’s compliance with global standards.

    GGAN pointed out that the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has significantly improved safety protocols in the sector, earning accolades from international bodies.

    Fabian further said the execution of the Cape Town Convention demonstrates the Nigerian government’s dedication to bringing aircraft financing and leasing in the country in line with worldwide standards.

    The achievement, according to him, aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on infrastructural development, economic diversification, and international partnerships.

    GGAN further noted that the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, under Keyamo, is emphasizing human capital development by sponsoring training programs that improve the abilities of aviation personnel through international collaborations.

    Fabian added, “For the record, the minister has achieved more than just operations and infrastructure and  emphasis on the development of human capital.

    “This strategy makes sure that the reforms in place are sustainable and gets the industry ready for new challenges that could be handled by competent individuals. In addition, Mr. Keyamo’s dedication to promoting diverse global partnerships has given Nigeria new prospects.

    “His foresight in creating good policies and reforms have improved the industry’s reputation internationally and drawn in foreign direct investment by fortifying relationships with overseas aviation associations and financiers.

    “Evidently, the Minister’s focus on transparency and accountability in the management of aviation resources has enhanced public trust. The tales of mismanagement and misappropriation of funds is now a closed chapter in our aviation sector.

    “For sustainability within the sector and entrenching a mindset of equity among the citizens, Mr Keyamo obtained approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to withdraw the ticket payment exemption granted to highly placed Nigerians at the nation’s airports.

    “However, while there are still small issues such as operating costs, inadequate infrastructure, and regulatory barriers, nonetheless, we have faith that these problems will be successfully resolved by the honourable minister’s comprehensive reform strategy.

    “It is clear that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s innovative leadership was essential to the aviation sector’s achievements. These accomplishments have been made possible by the backing and policy guidance of the President Tinubu-led administration.”

  • Int’l flights begin at Maiduguri Airport Jan.1

    Int’l flights begin at Maiduguri Airport Jan.1

    The Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku has pledged the Federal Government’s total support to the government of Borno State  to launch international flights from  Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Maiduguri,  January 1, 2025.

    The MD/CE made the commitment after a stakeholders meeting convened by the Executive Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, at the Government House in Maiduguri.

    Mrs. Kuku expressed FAAN’s commitment to deploying its manpower and resources to achieve the target date.

    The meeting attended by    the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo , who, in no uncertain terms, directed FAAN to extend all necessary support to ensure the realisation of this significant project.

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     Mrs. Kuku assured all parties that FAAN would not only meet but exceed the directives of the Minister, stressing that FAAN would ensure adherence to both local and international aviation regulations and provide comprehensive guidance and technical expertise to propel the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport project to fruition.

     Mrs. Kuku commended the vision and determination of Governor Zulum, underscoring FAAN’s unwavering commitment to offering appropriate technical support to this commendable initiative.

    She said the  convergence of governmental leadership, regulatory oversight, and industry expertise has  heralded a new chapter in Borno State’s aviation landscape, paving the way for increased connectivity, economic growth, and enhanced regional development.

    She said : “ As the countdown to project launch begins, the collective efforts of the Borno State Government, FAAN and all stakeholders stand as a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision in driving progress and transformation.

    “The forthcoming launch of the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Maiduguri symbolises a bold step towards a brighter future for the aviation industry in Nigeria and a testament to the unwavering spirit of unity and determination.”

  • Good Governance Advocates laud Aviation Minister over improved global rating

    Good Governance Advocates laud Aviation Minister over improved global rating

    The Good Governance Advocates of Nigeria (GGAN) has lauded  the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo on his recently improved global ratings.

    The group also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its remarkable achievements in the aviation sector, particularly the significant improvement in Nigeria’s global aviation compliance score.

    Under the leadership of Keyamo, the group said the aviation sector has witnessed a spectacular turnaround, with notable milestones achieved in the past year. 

    Speaking at a briefing in Abuja, Executive Director of the group Dr. Opialu Fabian noted that Keyamo’s focused leadership and intentional reforms have fostered interpersonal relationships, trade, and economic expansion and development.

    He said the Minister’s proactive interaction with aviation sector stakeholders has guaranteed inclusivity and conformity to international best practices. 

    Fabian stated that operators in the sector now have more confidence, creating a sense of hope for personal collaboration and business development.

    He noted that Keyamo’s strong commitment to safety has strengthened Nigeria’s compliance with global standards. 

    The group said the Ministry has significantly improved safety protocols, earning accolades from international bodies.

    Fabian further said that the smooth execution of the Cape Town Convention is among Keyamo’s notable achievements, adding that this accomplishment demonstrates the Federal Government’s dedication to bringing aircraft financing and leasing in line with worldwide standards. 

    According to him, these achievements align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on infrastructural development, economic diversification, and international partnerships.

    Fabian further said that the Minister has also emphasized human capital development, sponsoring training programs that improve aviation personnel abilities through international collaborations.

    The organisation urged stakeholders to support Keyamo’s initiatives, highlighting the sector’s far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s economy and global reputation.

    According to the group: “For the record, the Honourable Minister has achieved more than just operations and infrastructure, though of particular relevance is his emphasis on the development of human capital. Mr Keyamo understood that to create a successful aviation and aerospace sector, he needs to create successful individuals, and it was in this light the Ministry sponsored training programs that improve the abilities of aviation personnel through collaborations with international aviation organizations,” the statement said. 

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    “This strategy makes sure that the reforms in place are sustainable and gets the industry ready for new challenges that could be handled by competent individuals. In addition, Mr. Keyamo’s dedication to promoting diverse global partnerships has given Nigeria new prospects. 

    “His foresight in creating good policies and reforms have improved the industry’s reputation internationally and drawn in foreign direct investment by fortifying relationships with overseas aviation associations and financiers. Evidently, the Minister’s focus on transparency and accountability in the management of aviation resources has enhanced public trust. 

    “The tales of mismanagement and misappropriation of funds is now a closed chapter in our aviation sector. For sustainability within the sector and entrenching a mindset of equity among the citizens, Mr Keyamo  obtained approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to withdraw the ticket payment exemption granted to highly placed Nigerians at the nation’s airports. 

    “His sagacious approach in sweeping through the Ministry, has shown a steadfast commitment and positioning of sector that’s delivering value to Nigerians while adhering to global best practices. 

    However, while there are still small issues such as  operating costs, inadequate infrastructure, and regulatory barriers, nonetheless, we have faith that these problems will be successfully resolved by the Honourable Minister’s comprehensive reform strategy.

    “Moreover , in position and retaining a man who have proved himself worthy through his work a commitments, It is clear that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s innovative leadership was essential to the aviation sector’s achievements. These accomplishments have been made possible by the backing and policy guidance of the president led-administration.

    “It is worth mentioning that Nigeria’s aviation sector now serves as a model for other African nations. The reforms and achievements under Mr. Keyamo’s leadership have positioned the country as a leader in aviation, showcasing what can be accomplished through strategic vision and collaborative effort.  

    “The Nigerian aviation sector is on an upward trajectory under the leadership of Hon. Festus Keyamo. While reflecting on the milestones of the past year, it is undoubtedly clear that the aviation sector is on a trajectory of growth and sustainability. This progress is a speaks so much of the Honourable Minister’s dedication, expertise, and passion for excellence.“

  • Air Peace: Bird strike forced our aircraft’s return to ramp

    Air Peace: Bird strike forced our aircraft’s return to ramp

    Air Peace yesterday said one of its aircraft on the Abuja to Lagos 06.30 flight was forced to return to the aerodrome after it experienced a bird strike.

    A statement by the airline’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, said following the incident, the carrier had to escalate a safety measure, prompting a ramp return, where all passengers disembarked normally.

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    The statement reads: “We wish to inform our esteemed passengers that our Abuja-Lagos 06:30 flight experienced a bird strike before take-off, prompting a ramp return as a safety measure. All passengers disembarked normally.

    “We have deployed a replacement aircraft for the affected flight in order to minimise disruptions, thus ensuring that passengers continue their journeys promptly.

    “We appeal for the understanding of our valued passengers impacted by this development, as well as those on other flights that may experience delays.”

  • Helicopter crash: NIMASA to share information with IMO

    Helicopter crash: NIMASA to share information with IMO

    The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has promised to share its findings on the helicopter that crashed recently into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima in Rivers State with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

    Its Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, said this in a statement yesterday in Lagos by the agency’s Head of Public Relations Directorate, Mr. Edward Osagie.

    Mobereola said a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), also called the Black Box, were recovered at the weekend through an inter-agency collaboration.

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    He said the collaboration included NIMASA, the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and HydroDive with the collaboration of other local and international search and rescue partners.

    Mobereola praised all organs of government for the collaboration in the search and recovery operations.

    The agency boss promised that NIMASA would share information on the incident with the IMO.

    “In line with international maritime safety standards, NIMASA will report the findings about the helicopter crash into the Atlantic Ocean to the International Maritime Organisation via the Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS).

    “By sharing the findings of the off-shore Port Harcourt helicopter crash with the IMO, NIMASA demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and cooperation within the global maritime community.

    “The Global Integrated Shipping Information System is an online platform developed by the IMO to support the timely and accurate reporting of incidents, accidents, and other essential maritime data.

    “This platform enables member-state to share information crucial to improving safety protocols, updating best practices, and fostering international cooperation,” he said.

    According to him, NIMASA is committed to working closely with all relevant agencies to determine the cause of the incident and take all necessary steps to prevent future occurrences.

    Mourning those who died in the crash, the NIMASA boss reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to the safety of Nigeria’s maritime domain and continued inter-agency collaboration.

    He recalled how the agency received distress signals at the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) on October 24 and the (C4i) centre of the Deep Blue project and shared same with the Nigerian Navy.

    “The Nigerian Navy immediately deployed NIMASA’s specialised Search and Rescue assets to the crash site to locate the downed aircraft and conduct recovery efforts under challenging conditions.

    “The helicopter crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, at a distance of 1.4 kilometres from the starboard side of the Floating Producing Storage Offloading (FPSO), NUIM ANTAN Producing Limited owned by the NNPCL,” he said.

    Mobereola said the collaboration between NIMASA and other local as well as international search and rescue partners recovered the FDR and the CVR from the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter with registration number 5N BQG.

    According to him, with the recovery of the ‘Black Box’, over 80 per cent of the helicopter wreck has been recovered.

    The other recovered items include rotor, three blades, engine, gearbox, windows, cockpit overhead panels, the Electronic Locator Transmitter (ELT) and the tail.

  • Forum backs Keyamo on allocation of private airstrips

    Forum backs Keyamo on allocation of private airstrips

    The Forum of Security Experts (FOSE) has thrown its weight behind Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, over the allocation of private airstrips to qualified individuals. 

    This move has been surrounded by controversy, with some lawmakers calling for the revocation of private airstrip license due to security concerns. 

    However, Keyamo has clarified that the House of Representatives did not direct the revocation of any private airstrip licenses.

    In a statement signed by Danladi Adamu, the Forum hailed Keyamo’s efforts to promote Nigeria’s aviation growth, particularly his emphasis on modernizing Nigerian airports and investing in cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency, safety, and security. 

    Adamu said the allocation of airstrips to qualified individuals and organisations like Living Faith Church offers numerous benefits such as economic growth, jobs and stimulates local development. 

    He added that private airstrips also increases access to remote areas, facilitating humanitarian aid and medical evacuations. 

    Moreover, Adamu noted that private airstrips promote tourism, enabling visitors to access Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and natural attractions, boosting local economies and supporting small businesses.

    He added that Keyamo’s reforms has fostered an investor-friendly aviation sector, reassuring investors with transparency and accountability. 

    As Minister, Adamu said he drives growth, modernisation, and security enhancements while promoting Nigeria’s aviation growth. 

    The group urged the National Assembly to support the Ministry’s efforts in enhancing aviation security and development.

    The statement reads in part: “The Forum of Security Experts (FOSE) strongly endorses Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo’s, stance on allocating airstrips to Bishop David Oyedepo’s Living Faith Church and other qualified individuals. Despite controversy surrounding the move, Keyamo clarified that the House of Representatives did not direct revocation of private airstrip licenses.

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    “Keyamo’s dedication to promoting Nigeria’s aviation growth is laudable. His emphasis on modernizing airports and investing in cutting-edge technologies enhances efficiency, safety, and security. Regulatory reforms encourage local and international investments, while investments in training and development of aviation professionals foster excellence.

    “At the NCAA South-West Regional Air Transportation Summit (SWRATS) 2024, Keyamo underscored aviation’s critical role in economic growth. A well-developed aviation sector attracts foreign investments, grows industries like logistics, travel, and tourism, and connects Nigeria to global markets.

    “Nigeria has achieved notable milestones in the sector, including improved ratings under the Cape Town Convention. The country’s aviation working group rating jumped from 49.5% to over 70%. This renewed confidence will provide airlines with better financial instruments.

    “The allocation of airstrips to qualified individuals and organizations, like Living Faith Church, offers numerous benefits. It enhances economic growth, creates jobs, and stimulates local development. Private airstrips also increase access to remote areas, facilitating humanitarian aid and medical evacuations.

    “Moreover, private airstrips promote tourism, enabling visitors to access Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and natural attractions. This, in turn, boosts local economies and supports small businesses.

    “Keyamo’s reforms will foster an investor-friendly aviation sector, reassuring investors with transparency and accountability. As minister, he drives growth, modernization, and security enhancements.

    “FOSE commends Minister Keyamo for addressing security concerns while promoting Nigeria’s aviation growth. We urge the National Assembly to support the Ministry’s efforts in enhancing aviation security and development.

    “By working together, we can reposition the Nigerian aviation industry for financial capability and economic viability. Keyamo’s leadership has instilled confidence in Nigeria’s aviation future.

    “The benefits of allocating airstrips to qualified individuals extend beyond economic growth. They also enhance national security by providing alternative landing strips for emergency situations.

    “Private airstrips also support agricultural development, enabling efficient transportation of perishable goods to markets. This boosts Nigeria’s agricultural sector, promoting food security and economic diversification.”