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Tag: Festus Keyamo

  • Keyamo rejects N532bn contract variation for Abuja second runway

    Keyamo rejects N532bn contract variation for Abuja second runway

    The Minister of Aviation and Aero Space Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN on Wednesday said that the Ministry has rejected an outrageous contract variation from N90billion to N532billion to construct the Second Runway of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

    Keyamo disclosed this while answering questions from members of the Joint National Assembly Committee on Aviation and Aviation Technology during his 2025 budget defence session.

    He said a bidding process would be conducted to select a contractor to build the runway.

    Keyamo said: “After N3.4billion post contract consultancy fee paid to the contractor handling the project in May 2023, N90billion was agreed to be for the whole contract out of which N30billion was released.

    “The contractor after receiving the N30billion and joined the Federal Capital Territory Administration to compensate some settlers on the affected land, left the site.

    “All efforts made thereafter to get the contractor back to site proved abortive on the grounds of unacceptable contract variation they demanded for.

    “The contractor in question, is demanding for contract variation of N532billion from the original sum of N90billion for the execution of the contract.

    “To us in the Ministry, the said variation is nothing but fraud, leaving us with no option than to cancel the contract and call for fresh bids.”

    Members of the committee also asked the Minister why the N36billion owed workers of the defunct Nigeria Airways was not captured in the Ministry’s 2025 budget estimates.

    Responding, Keyamo said payment of the N36billion has been shifted to the Ministry of Finance since the money is not meant for capital projects.

    “The affected pensioners would soon get their due from the Ministry of Finance and not from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. I met with leaders of the joint unions on this in November last year and they agreed to arrangement put on ground,” he said.

    He however disagreed with suggestion by some members of the committee that the establishment of Aerospace University across the six geo-political zones should be discontinued since there is already one in Zaria, Kaduna State.

    According to him, as the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) was established in 1964, so was the Nigeria Law School established in Lagos.

    “While the Nigerian Law School has been decentralized, the Aviation College in Zaria has not followed suit which the Aerospace Universities are meant to correct,” he said.

    On the N71.13billion proposed budgetary estimates for the ministry in 2025 Keyamo said N69.2billion is for capital projects, N1.147billion for personnel cost and N745.7million for overhead.

    However, Chairman of the joint committee, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari (APC – Oyo North), told the Minister that approval would be given the budgetary proposal after submission of full details on the current status of 124 projects being executed by the Ministry.

    He said: “Historical background and current status of all the ongoing projects being executed by the ministry are needed as requested by this committee latest by next week before we can approve this budget.

    The committee also threatened to withhold approval of the 2025 budget for the Ministry if provision is not made for the N36 billion owed to former workers of the defunct Nigerian Airways.

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    Established in August 1958, Nigerian Airways was the nation’s flag carrier until it ceased operations in 2003 due to issues like mismanagement and accumulated debts. At its peak, the airline operated over 30 aircraft and employed hundreds of people.

    In 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari, approved N22 billion as part payment of the N45 billion owed to the former employees. Despite this, a balance of N36 billion remains unpaid, leading to financial hardships and in some cases, the former aviation workers died while awaiting their entitlements.

    During the budget defence session, the lawmakers called on the federal government to consider the payment of entitlements to the ex-workers of the defunct Nigerian airways.

    The Senator representing Niger South, Peter Jiya, had called attention of the government to the non-payment of entitlements to ex-workers of the airline, many of whom he said have died or are currently battling financial hardship and ill health.

    Jiya said that justice must be done for those who dedicated their lives to serving the nation’s aviation sector.

    “There is an issue that is not in your budget, which is very key and critical. The defunct Nigerian airways. There is a liability of N36 billion being owed,” he said.

    “Some have died, many are sick and dying. Yet, the government is refusing to pay them. I think something should be done on that,” Jiya added.

    He urged the lawmakers to ensure that provisions is made for the outstanding salaries in the 2025 budget of the aviation ministry before it will be approved.

    “This budget should not pass without those people being provided for,” he said.

    Keyamo in his response acknowledged the outstanding liability and confirmed that the ministry had consistently pursued its settlement.

    The Minister said that under the previous administration, discussions were held between aviation sector unions and the government which resulted in an official agreement that N36 billion was due to the workers.

    “Under the last administration, both the unions and the ministry sat down and arrived at that figure, about N36 billion,” he said.

    He stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had transferred the burden of the payment from the ministry of aviation to the ministry of finance.

    “However, there was a presidential directive for the ministry of finance to take over the payments, the liability from the ministry of aviation, because it would have been too much on the envelope of the ministry of aviation. The payment is domiciled in the ministry of finance.”

    The minister said he has sent several reminders to the minister of finance for the payment through letters and official visitations.

    “We have written several letters. We went there to visit, to press for payment. Myself and the union leaders, to show our transparency.

    “I went there with the union leaders in November to meet the minister. They were all satisfied with our efforts. All the union leaders, the joint union aviation leaders, we went there, we appealed to him. He said he is working hard on it. That was in November, just two months ago, sir.”

    Senator, Sahabi Ya’u, questioned the Minister of Finance’s failure to release the outstanding payment to the former aviation workers.

    Ya’u emphasised the some of the former employees are in dire need, while others have already died without receiving their rightful entitlements

    “There was still an approval. You cannot say that he doesn’t have N36 billion. Some of these people are yearning for what to eat. Some are no more. Please, let’s be sympathetic to ourselves,” Ya’u added.

    Buhari gave the Minister one week to address lawmakers’ concerns on the outstanding payments to former aviation workers and other issues on ongoing projects in the ministry before the final budget will be considered and passed.

  • ‘Ekiti Airport ready for commercial operations’

    ‘Ekiti Airport ready for commercial operations’

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN) on Tuesday said the Ekiti State Agro- Allied International Cargo Airport, Ado-Ekiti is ready for full commercial operations.

    The Minister disclosed this to newsmen shortly after inspecting facilities at the airport in company of the state Governor, Biodun Oyebanji and some top government officials. According to Keyamo, the airport is 99.5 percent completed, affirming that full commercial operations will soon commence.

    The Minister also disclosed that the runway, which is of international standard has an apron large enough to sufficiently park many 737 small-body aircraft making it adequately comparable to airports in the developed world.

     “As I mentioned yesterday, Ekiti Agro Allied International Cargo Airport is 99.5 percent ready for full commercial operations. I am sure you have seen that we have gone around, the basic requirements for the takeoff of an airport are here, you have the fire station, the tower, navigational equipment already installed, all security equipment in place, the runway we have here is of international standard. You can also see how big the apron is, it can park many B737 aircraft with narrow bodies. A lot of narrow bodies can come here and anchor. So, as it is today, Ekiti is ready for the world.

     “And a fact that the Governor has put a lot of passion and resources since he came to office is a testament to his desire for this project. What is left is to ignite all regulatory agencies in aviation to give all the necessary approvals.

     “I landed here to show the world that it’s now safe for landing, which is why Aviation 001 had to land here, it’s a testament that I have confidence in the facilities here for public use. The commercial airline will start coming in anytime from now.” The Minister affirmed.

    Governor Oyebanji in his comment, expressed appreciation to the Aviation Minister, Aare Afe Babalola, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for making the dreams of the founding fathers and the entire Ekiti people come to reality with their unwavering support towards the completion of the airport project.

    Read Also: More airports for safety certification

    Governor Oyebanji, who could not hide his excitement at the current status of the airport, said it spoke to the alignment of vision of the immediate past Governor of the state, Dr Kayode Fayemi who started the project, and that of the current administration. He said the airport is part of the numerous gains of continuity.

    The Governor also stated that the state economy stands to benefit a lot from the project as jobs will be created through agriculture, commerce, and tourism as well as added value to properties in the area because of the anticipated inflow of traffic in the area.

     “Now that the Honourable Minister has landed here, it is a stamp of authority that the airport is ready for non-scheduled flight. So, anybody that has a chattered flight can fly into this place without any fear, and very soon commercial flight operations would commence.

     “It is a dual-purpose airport, it’s going to serve agro-allied products as well as commercial passengers.” Governor Oyebanji stated.

  • Keyamo, Delta deputy governor mourn tanker explosion victims

    Keyamo, Delta deputy governor mourn tanker explosion victims

    •Rivers council chair picks bill of 18 injured victims of gas explosion

    Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo and Delta State Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, yesterday commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives or properties when a tanker exploded in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area on Sunday afternoon, leading to an inferno.

    Unknown number of lives were lost and properties destroyed when a tanker carrying petrol lost control and burst into flames.

    Onyeme, who visited the scene, said the government will compensate those affected and carry out remedial works on the damaged area.

    “We will also look at the physical infrastructure, the extent of damage, and see how the government of Delta State will help to reduce the negative impact that it [explosion] has on the owners of these businesses,” Onyeme, who also came with government officials, said.

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    Keyamo added: “We are deeply grateful for the dedication and courage of our emergency teams. Their efforts significantly mitigated the impact of this tragic event.’’

    The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the affected community in its recovery and rebuilding efforts.

    In Rivers State, the Chairman of the Obio-Akpor Local Government Area,  Chijioke Ihunwo yesterday visited the scene of the gas explosion at Orazi axis and the hospital where the victims are receiving treatment to sympathise with them.

    He expressed sadness over the incident.

  • Passengers’ travel experience at airports improving says Keyamo

    Passengers’ travel experience at airports improving says Keyamo

    • Inaugurates refurbished E-Wing departure facility at MMIA

    Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo said on Friday that passengers travelling through Nigerian international gateways to destinations abroad have experienced  a dramatic shift from the hitherto harassment and extortion they undergo in the hands of officials processing their trips.

    Keyamo said the new experience, which many Nigerians have curated in diverse social media platforms stems from the measures being put in place by the Ministry of Aviation, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and the Office Of The National Security Adviser (ONSA).

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    Keyamo said the Ministry through FAAN has done a written communication to ONSA on the steps it has worked out to put an end to the hitherto constant harassment of passengers / extortion at the airport by personnel attached, which is giving the country a bad reputation.

    While suing for the collaboration of affected agencies and their personnel to change the narrative, Keyamo said the optics generated from previous unprofessional practice has dented the image of the country.

    Speaking in an interview, Keyamo after inspecting the refurbished facility said:” What you are seeing today is the general plan of FAAN, endorsed by the Ministry of Aviation to remodel our airports, in partnership with private entities within our limited resources to make airport facilities user friendly. What we are doing today is the commissioning of Wing E- Departure of the Lagos International Airport, in partnership with the United Bank of Africa, which has been with us for a very long time.

  • Keyamo commissions NCAA’s flight data centre in Abuja

    Keyamo commissions NCAA’s flight data centre in Abuja

    The federal government has commissioned the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority’s (NCAA) Flight Data Centre in Abuja to improve safety in the aviation sector.

    The centre is expected to support the NCAA with data acquisition, data processing, event detection, and feedback loop for efficiency and regulation of the sector.

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, while commissioning the Centre at the NCAA’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, said the establishment of the centre was in line with President Bola Tinubu’s aspiration of improving various sectors of the economy.

    He also said the establishment of the centre is expected to increase the country’s rating by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

    Keyamo said: “One of our five-point agenda is to improve safety within the sector. This centre speaks to the fact that we are concentrating on improving safety within the sector, and that means that we will keep moving up in the rating of ICAO.

    “The flight data centre we just commissioned doesn’t work only in respect of incidents or even serious incidents. It can used in a routine manner, whereby they track flight patterns, track various human efforts and mechanical efforts in the process of a flight, and then they come to conclusions by which they can improve the sector, offer advice, and regulate more. Basically, with this, they can regulate better, which is their core mandate.

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    “So, this effort speaks to the fact that the administration of President Tinubu is very concerned about improving different sectors, moving from analogue to a more digital and more modern way of carrying out our functions”.

    The Acting Director-General of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo said the centre complied with Annex 19 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation which mandates all States to establish safety data collection and processing systems (SDCPS) to capture, store, aggregate, and enable the analysis of safety data and safety information.

    Najomo, while highlighting the benefits of the centre to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and the country, noted that it would reduce cases of accidents and incidents in the sector.

    He said: “It would save cost and boost efficiency because it reduces the likelihood of costly accidents and incidents. It also supports the implementation of risk-based oversight through efficient allocation of resources to areas of higher risk.

    “Globally, our credibility will improve as it aligns NCAA with global best practices, thereby boosting international confidence in Nigerian aviation safety standards.

    “It will also help NCAA proactively detect potential safety risks and also enable data-driven decision-making to prevent serious incidents and accidents”.

    He further said it offers critical insights into flight events leading to incidents and improves the quality and speed of incident investigations.

    He also said the authority would be able to monitor the activities of the airlines and their compliance with regulations.

    “With this centre, we would be able to track airlines’ adherence to safety regulations and ensure implementation of corrective actions and safety improvements”.

    He added that it would improve stakeholder collaboration by facilitating better communication between airlines, pilots, and regulators and promote a culture of safety through transparency and shared learning. 

  • CAN urges lawmakers to protect living faith church’s reputation over airstrip license 

    CAN urges lawmakers to protect living faith church’s reputation over airstrip license 

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Saturday called on lawmakers to avoid tarnishing the reputation of the Living Faith Church over its recently approved airstrip license. 

    In October, the Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the license approval for the church to construct an airstrip, to be managed by the federal government through the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency. 

    The approval has sparked opposition from some members of the House of Representatives, who have called for the revocation of airstrip licenses issued to private organizations and individuals, citing national security concerns.

    In a statement signed by CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association urged lawmakers to approach their investigation with fairness and impartiality. CAN emphasized that while security concerns are valid, they should not lead to unwarranted suspicion or religious bias. 

    The church reportedly secured the license after meeting all legal and safety requirements, underscoring its compliance with regulatory standards. 

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    “The church has adhered to all regulatory procedures in securing this license,” the statement read, referencing Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo’s confirmation of compliance.

    Okoh said: “To prematurely associate the church with potential illegal activities, without substantive evidence, risks undermining the integrity of both religious institutions and regulatory bodies.”

    CAN further highlighted the church’s contributions to peace, development, and community service, cautioning against actions that could erode trust between religious organizations and the state.

    “Revoking the license without substantial evidence would unjustly undermine the rights of religious organizations and set a troubling precedent,” Archbishop Okoh warned.

    The House Committees on Aviation and Legislative Compliance have been tasked with investigating the matter.

    CAN has called for transparency and constructive dialogue during the process, stressing that religious undertones must not cloud the lawmakers’ judgement.

    “As we await the outcome of the investigation, we call on all stakeholders to engage in cooperation and dialogue. This is an opportunity to strengthen trust and foster mutual respect between religious communities and the state,” the statement added.

    CAN reiterated its readiness to support measures that balance national security with the protection of religious freedoms.

    “With wisdom, patience, and mutual respect, we can navigate this issue to a resolution that honours our collective values and ensures the prosperity of our nation,” Archbishop Okoh concluded.

    The development underscores the delicate balance between national security and religious rights, with CAN advocating for fairness and justice in this high-profile matter.

  • ‘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.”

  • 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.”

  • Keyamo counters Reps over revoking licences of private airstrip

    Keyamo counters Reps over revoking licences of private airstrip

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has reacted to the move by the House of Representatives to revoke the licences of certain airstrips in the country. 

    He blamed the move on lack of understanding of the aviation industry.

    Keyamo explained that NAMA provides Air Traffic Controllers and Engineers at all airports and airstrips, with private airstrip owners paying the Federal Government substantial fees for these services.

    The Minister emphasised that no aircraft can enter Nigerian airspace without prior clearance by NAMA and a clear flight plan detailing its take-off and landing points.

    A member of the House, Sulaiman Abubarka had argued that the frequent approval of airstrips for private individuals could exacerbate the country’s security challenges.

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    Responding via “X” (formerly Twitter), Keyamo said: “I think this is not correct. The House of Reps. as a body did not call on the Minister to revoke the license of any private airstrip. 

    “I think what happened is that someone moved a motion in that regard and it was unanimously referred to the Aviation Committee to look into it. Whilst the intention of the Hon. Member who moved it is very patriotic, it was based on a complete lack of knowledge of the aviation sector. 

    “By the time we explain to them how private air strips work and the processes they undergo by our agencies before the final approval, they will be satisfied. 

    “The responsibility of the owners of private air strips is just to build the runway and terminal building. But after they build the control tower in particular, it is completely handed over to the Federal Government through NAMA (Nigerian Airspace Management Agency) which is in complete control of the entire airspace in Nigeria. 

    “An MOU is usually signed with NAMA in this regard before the airstrip is approved for operations. It is NAMA that provides the Air Traffic Controllers and Engineers in ALL AIRPORTS and AIRSTRIPS IN NIGERIA. And the privates air strip owners pay the Federal Government handsomely for these services. No object flies into Nigeria without the prior clearance by NAMA and without filing a clear flight plan, eg, where it is taking off from and where it intends to land. 

    “And I have recently directed that all aircraft coming into the country MUST first land at our international airports where they would be properly processed and checked before they make their local flights into whatever airport or airstrip they intend to go. 

    “So, it is COMPLETELY AND TOTALLY impossible for any private airstrip owner to just jump on an aircraft and fly in and out of the country through that facility. The Federal Government does not permit that. You will not be cleared for take off or landing without prior request and authorisation. I thank the Member for his patriotism, but I wish he contacted us first to explain to him before rushing to move such a motion.”

  • Govt secures new financing window for airlines

    Govt secures new financing window for airlines

    The Federal Government has secured a window for  indigenous carriers to explore discussions  for aircraft financing and leasing with players in the global space.

    The new arrangement is part of the support programme being packaged for indigenous operations who have been struggling with opportunities to secure aircraft to boost their fleet and other cost saving measures.

    To drive the new move, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo said Nigeria has been invited to the Republic of Ireland where global lessors will be unveiling packages for carriers.

    Disclosing at the weekend during the 10 years anniversary of Air Peace, Keyamo said the forum will provide a window for global players in the aircraft financing and leasing space to interface with Nigerian carriers on sustainable models.

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    The minister said the Federal Government is becoming increasingly worried why Nigerian carriers experience bust and boom circle.

    He said the high attrition rate of indigenous carriers has become so disturbing despite the Boeing study on the  inherent opportunities in Nigeria concerning the air transport value chain.

    Keyamo said :” Why is Nigeria experiencing high mortality rate for airlines. The Federal Government is frontally addressing this concern and with the interventions currently in place, we are getting closer to fixing the challenge. Issues about to access aircraft leasing and financing is under focus as the government is utilising every opportunity to assist our local carriers.”

    Also speaking, Sales Director Boeing Commercial Aircraft, Mr Moore Ibekwe said the airplane maker is consolidating strategies to enhance the growth and development of the airline industry in Nigeria.

    Part of what is required, Ibekwe said, is for government and airlines to improve transport infrastructure and other interventions needed to take the industry to the next level.

    From the domestication of the necessary instrument to accelerate the implementation of the Cape Town Convention (CTC), the Boeing official said Nigeria is gaining global endorsement to facilitate opportunities for aircraft leasing and financing.

    Significantly, Ibekwe said Boeing is working on an assistance project to assist Nigeria and her airlines in aircraft financing, advisory on operational/business models, getting the airports ready for the future as well as the required interventions for the relevant aeronautical regulatory authorities.

    On his part, Chairman /Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the revolution , through series of interventions to curb the high mortality rate of airlines in Nigeria.

    Onyema said with the recent bold steps put in place by the government to enhance the global perception of Nigeria in the global aircraft leasing space, indigenous operators could now access dry leasing of airplanes at a ridiculously lower rate compared to direct purchase of the equipment.

    He hailed Keyamo for his collaboration with indigenous carriers in addressing serious industry issues.

    Onyema said :” Keyamo’s decision has been in the best overall industry interest especially recent efforts to make it easier for Nigerian carriers to dry lease airplanes. As much as the operator meets the specifications set by lessors, it is a lot convenient to explore the inherent opportunities instead of direct purchase of aircraft.”