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  • Aviation Minister Keyamo hailed for transformative strides in airports

    Aviation Minister Keyamo hailed for transformative strides in airports

    The Centre for Africa Civilisation and Development (CACD) has hailed the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, describing him as a transformative leader who has revolutionised Nigeria’s airports. 

    Under Keyamo’s proactive leadership, the Centre said the sector has witnessed significant reforms, addressing longstanding challenges and propelling the nation forward.

    Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Prince Madaki, Executive Director, praised the Minister for his strategic approach to tackling dollar repatriation concerns, empowering local carriers, and modernizing airport infrastructure.

    According to Madaki, the relocation of airlines to the newly constructed terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport has improved the passenger experience, demonstrating Keyamo’s commitment to efficiency and transparency.

    He further said air safety has also received a boost, with Keyamo prioritizing the deployment of modern facilities and equipment through the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA). 

    Madaki noted that Keyamo’s focus on building confidence in local airlines has yielded results, with more Nigerians opting for domestic carriers, adding that his commitment to transparency and accountability has transformed the sector, promoting openness and efficiency.

    “We are confidently putting it to everyone that the Honourable Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, has made remarkable strides in reforming Nigeria’s aviation sector,” he added. 

    “His proactive leadership and commitment to addressing longstanding challenges have set a new standard for governance in this critical industry. From enhancing air safety and empowering local airlines to modernizing airport infrastructure, Mr. Keyamo has demonstrated that with visionary leadership, long-lasting progress is achievable.

    “His alignment with the Asiwaju administration’s renewed hope agenda has been a driving force behind these accomplishments. Under his leadership, the aviation sector is experiencing a renaissance, offering a beacon of hope for Nigerians who rely on air travel for both domestic and international purposes.

    “As the Centre for Africa Civilisation and Development, we applaud the Honourable Minister for his achievements thus far and look forward to continued progress under his stewardship.

    Read Also: Keyamo clarifies directive on use of local caterers by international airlines

    “His dedication to transparency, accountability, and progress is an example for all government officials, proving that through decisive action, even the most complex challenges can be overcome. In him have we found a Just and right man for the problems plaguing this country for decades.

    “The Honourable Minister’s policies have demonstrated that change is not only possible but also achievable when backed by strategic planning, commitment, and the will to overcome entrenched challenges.

    “Mr. Festus Keyamo stands as a symbol of possibility—where others faltered, he has triumphed. His legacy in the aviation sector will be remembered as one that ushered in a new era of efficiency, modernization, and trust. The Centre remains confident that with sustained effort, the future of Nigeria’s aviation industry is bright.”

    The Centre called for sustained infrastructure development, reduction of operational costs, and collaboration with international partners to further enhance the sector’s growth.

  • How Keyamo transformed Nigeria’s aviation industry

    How Keyamo transformed Nigeria’s aviation industry

    Festus Keyamo (SAN) has emerged as a transformative force in Nigeria’s aviation and aerospace sector, navigating substantial challenges to reshape an industry long in decline. His tenure as Minister has been marked by impressive achievements that have revitalized this critical sector, positioning him as a key architect of its resurgence.

    When Keyamo assumed office, Nigeria’s aviation sector was in a precarious state. The industry was plagued by inefficiency, safety concerns, and a host of complaints from operators and passengers alike. Keyamo recognized the urgency of the situation and promptly initiated a comprehensive strategy to address the myriad issues at hand. His first step was to engage with all stakeholders—airline operators, regulatory bodies, and industry experts—to conduct a thorough assessment of the sector’s problems.

    Through his proactive engagement, Keyamo brought the industry’s key players together to identify pressing challenges and develop pragmatic solutions. Under his guidance, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) undertook the critical task of revalidating all airline operators, ensuring they met stringent global standards. This process not only enhanced safety protocols but also restored confidence among the flying public. Keyamo’s leadership has been marked by a steadfast commitment to reform, even in the face of opposition. Some industry actors sought to undermine his efforts, fearing the repercussions of his stringent policies aimed at rooting out corruption and inefficiency. 

    Read Also: Nigeria begins sale of crude oil, refined petroleum products in Naira

    Undeterred, Keyamo made it clear that he would not compromise on his vision for a reformed aviation sector. His declaration that he would “not mind whose ox is gored” became a rallying cry for accountability and integrity within the industry. This resolute stance has fostered a culture of compliance, compelling industry players to adhere to ethical practices. A hallmark of Keyamo’s ministerial achievements is his role in securing vital international routes for Nigerian airlines. His negotiation prowess was particularly evident in the successful establishment of the Lagos-London route for Air Peace and other carriers. This initiative not only allowed Nigerian airlines to significantly increase their market share but also led to substantial foreign exchange savings for the country. By enhancing the operational capabilities of local carriers, Keyamo ensured that the Nigerian flag flew high on the international stage, thereby attracting interest from potential investors who recognize the country’s growing aviation potential.

    In addition to route expansion, Keyamo has been a strong advocate for public-private partnerships aimed at upgrading airport infrastructure and operational efficiency. He has prioritized the improvement of facilities, ensuring that airports are not only functional but also passenger-friendly. Keyamo’s efforts to engage with aviation giants such as Boeing and Airbus have paved the way for Nigeria to explore beneficial leasing agreements, which had previously eluded the country due to systemic inefficiencies. A significant milestone was achieved during his discussions at the Cape Town Convention, where Nigeria was officially recognized as a safe destination for aircraft leasing. The Aviation Working Group, co-chaired by Boeing and Airbus, adjusted Nigeria’s compliance rating dramatically—from 49 to an impressive 70.5—reflecting the nation’s commitment to aligning with international leasing standards.

    This newfound credibility has instilled confidence in global financiers and lessors, who are now more inclined to invest in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Keyamo has instructed the NCAA to further refine its regulatory framework, particularly the International Registry of Mobile Assets (IDERA), to enhance alignment with international conventions. This strategic move aims to further bolster confidence among investors and facilitate a more favorable operating environment for lessors. As Keyamo continues to work tirelessly to establish Nigeria as a premier aviation hub in Africa, his vision extends beyond merely reviving the sector. He is committed to creating an ecosystem that fosters investment opportunities, stimulates tourism, and ultimately drives economic growth.

    By implementing comprehensive reforms and enhancing Nigeria’s global aviation profile, Keyamo has not only breathed new life into a struggling industry but also positioned it as a vital contributor to the nation’s overall economic landscape. In summary, Festus Keyamo’s tenure as Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development represents a remarkable turnaround for Nigeria’s aviation sector. Through a blend of visionary leadership, unwavering resolve, and strategic partnerships, he has laid the groundwork for a vibrant and competitive aviation industry that promises to benefit the nation for years to come.

    *Sofowora sent this piece from New York.

  • Keyamo leads delegation to UAE as Emirates resumes flight operations

    Keyamo leads delegation to UAE as Emirates resumes flight operations

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has led a delegation to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to finalise negotiations ahead of the resumption of Emirates Airlines’ flight operations to Nigeria.

    Keyamo, accompanied by his technical team, engaged in discussions with UAE aviation authorities, to ensure smooth reintroduction of Emirates Airlines into the Nigerian airspace on October 1st.

    The participants at the meeting also set the stage for a new Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between both nations to ensure stronger and mutually beneficial aviation ties.

    The new BASA is designed to enhance collaboration between the two countries and establish guidelines for their evolving relationship in the aviation sector.

    The negotiations also led to an agreement on reciprocal rights, which would ensure that Nigerian airlines also have the opportunity to commence direct flight operations to the UAE.

    This is contained in a statement in Abuja on Friday by the Media Aide to the Minister, Tunde Moshood.

    Read Also: Keyamo pleads with aviation unions over planned protest

    Commenting on the outcome of the meeting, Keyamo said: “Today’s discussions reaffirm our commitment to fostering a balanced and forward-looking partnership with the UAE. We are pleased to have secured reciprocal operational rights for Nigerian airlines, which will not only deepen our bilateral ties but also strengthen the global competitiveness of Nigeria’s aviation industry.

    “As Emirates returns to Nigeria, we look forward to a thriving and mutually beneficial air service relationship.

    “This development follows weeks of diplomatic and technical consultations aimed at restoring direct air travel between Nigeria and the UAE, further signalling the federal government’s dedication to ensuring the best possible outcomes for both Nigerian and international travellers”.

    The resumed flight operations by Emirates and the new BASA are expected to boost tourism and business and foster economic growth and cultural exchanges between Nigeria and the UAE.

  • Sustain superlative performances, groups tell Utsev, Keyamo

    Sustain superlative performances, groups tell Utsev, Keyamo

    Some pro-government groups have praised Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation Joseph Utsev and Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development for what they described as their outstanding performances in office, urging them to sustain the efforts. 

    Under the auspices of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors in Network Nigeria, they acknowledged the ministers’ dedication to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    In a statement  by its President Dr William Abu, the groups said Ministers Utsev and Keyamo have demonstrated unwavering passion for Nigeria’s progress, inspiring hope and confidence among Nigerians.

    “Professor Joseph Utsev has transformed the water resources sector through innovative approaches. His initiatives have improved access to clean water, enhanced sanitation infrastructure, and promoted sustainable water management practices,” Abu said. 

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    “Utsev has introduced groundbreaking reforms, including sustainable river basin management, revitalizing ailing irrigation schemes, and promoting integrated water resources management. His water supply expansion projects have increased access to potable water in rural communities.

    “The Minister’s leadership has also upgraded waste management facilities, promoting hygiene practices and implementing efficient water usage policies. His efforts have boosted the economy by increasing food production, creating jobs, and enhancing sanitation.”

    In the aviation sector, Abu said Festus Keyamo has elevated Nigeria’s standing with strategic plans to make the country Africa’s leading aviation hub through local airline empowerment, international route expansion, and airport infrastructure upgrades.

    “Keyamo’s reforms have enhanced airport infrastructure, improved air travel safety, and fostered innovation in the aerospace industry. His leadership promotes transparency, accountability, and a culture of excellence’” Abu added. 

    “Keyamo’s vision for Nigeria’s aviation sector has received widespread acclaim. His efforts have improved Nigeria’s global ranking and attractiveness to investors.

    “The Renewed Hope Ambassadors Network in Nigeria commends Ministers Utsev and Keyamo for their remarkable achievements and urges them to continue their excellent work.”

    The groups urged them to maintain the momentum, continue delivering exceptional results, and remain steadfast in their commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

    By doing so, Abu said Utsev and Keyamo will further cement their legacies, inspire hope among Nigerians, and significantly contribute to President Tinubu’s vision for a brighter future.

  • Keyamo pleads with aviation unions over planned protest

    Keyamo pleads with aviation unions over planned protest

    Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, has made a passionate appeal to the aviation sector unions to reconsider their planned peaceful protest on September 18, 2024, in response to the deduction of 50 per cent  of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) at source by the government.

    He acknowledged the concerns raised by the unions and assured that President Bola Tinubu is personally looking into the matter and working diligently to find a resolution.

    He emphasised that the government is committed to ensuring the efficient and safe operation of the aviation sector.

    In a bid to address the concerns, the minister in a statement said, a meeting has been scheduled with the leadership of the unions on September 17, 2024, to provide a platform for open discussion and allow President Tinubu sufficient time to intervene and address the unions’ concerns comprehensively.

    The minister appealed to the unions to give dialogue a chance, stating that through constructive engagement, a mutually beneficial solution can be reached, ensuring the safety and sustainability of the aviation sector.

    “We understand the strain this has placed on the sector’s ability to address critical safety and operational needs, and we take these concerns very seriously. We believe that through dialogue, we can find a solution that works for everyone involved.”

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    The minister expressed gratitude to the unions for their patience and understanding, assuring them that their voices are being heard and their concerns are being addressed.

    The appeal comes ahead of the planned protest on September 18, 2024 by the unions and is seen as a last-ditch effort to resolve the issue amicably.

    Aviation workers’ unions had  announced plans to stage a peaceful protest on September 18, 2024. The General Secretary of the National Union of Air Transport Employees, Ocheme Aba, and the Deputy General Secretary of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, Frances Akinjole, disclosed this in a statement.

    Other unions that signed the statement include the Secretary General of ANAP, Abdul Rasaq; the General Secretary of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, Olayinka Abioye; and the General Secretary of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, Sikiru Waheed.

    They blamed the decision on the refusal of the Federal Government to accede to their call for the reversal of the 50 per cent deduction policy from the internally generated revenues of agencies in the aviation sector.

    “All workers of the NCAA, FAAN, NAMA, NiMet, NCAT and NSIB, joint  solidarity of all aviation workers are hereby directed to embark on peaceful protests at all airports nationwide on 18th September 2024 to demand the discontinuation of deduction of 50% from the internally generated revenue of the agencies mentioned above through an exemption,” the statement read.

     “All efforts on our part have failed to impress upon the Federal Government that all the Agencies are cost recovery, and not profit making, organizations. As such they cannot survive on half of their incomes under any model of administration, or any other guise whatsoever. And the ultimatum given for the Minister of Aviation on the same has expired since the end of August, 2024.”

    According to the statement, the protest is as a result of the unions’ demand for the discontinuation of the deduction from the following agencies: the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau.

    The TSA policy, initially introduced with a 25 per cent deduction from revenue-generating agencies of the Federal Government in October 2022, escalated to 40 per cent shortly after. But the current administration increased the deductions to 50 per cent in January 2024.

  • FG to convene stakeholders meeting to resolve aviation insurance matters

    FG to convene stakeholders meeting to resolve aviation insurance matters

    The federal government has taken steps to address pressing concerns within the aviation and insurance sectors by agreeing to convene a stakeholders meeting between operators in both industries.

    This resolution was disclosed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during a meeting with the Commissioner for Insurance, Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, in Abuja.

    The meeting, which was held at the Minister’s office, focused on creating a platform where key players in the aviation and insurance industries could discuss and resolve critical issues affecting their operations, particularly as they relate to insurance policies and regulations.

    In his statement, the Minister noted the importance of collaboration, stating, “Based on the clarifications provided by the Commissioner for Insurance, I would like to convene a stakeholders meeting involving the Commission, airline operators, and insurance operators to reach an agreeable position, on insurance matters, to all parties.”

    This meeting is expected to provide a structured forum for the deliberation of issues such as aviation insurance premiums, risk management practices, and adherence to local and international insurance regulations.

    It is also intended to address challenges faced by the aviation sector regarding the coverage and reinsurance of aircraft operating in Nigeria, many of which have been affected by recent global economic uncertainties.

    The meeting between the Ministry and the insurance regulator is part of the federal government’s broader efforts to ensure that Nigeria’s aviation industry remains competitive in the global market while also strengthening domestic capacities in the insurance sector.

    Keyamo and Omosehin agreed that such interactions were crucial for promoting Nigeria’s image internationally, enhancing the credibility of the country’s aviation and insurance sectors, and pushing for necessary improvements in relevant laws.

    This, they noted, would help attract and maintain relationships with credible international stakeholders, further boosting investor confidence in Nigeria.

    Read Also: FG, Boeing sign MoU to boost aviation sector

    Earlier in the meeting, Omosehin, who serves as the Chief Executive of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), provided the Minister with a detailed briefing on the workings and arrangements of aviation insurance and reinsurance, as stipulated by existing laws.

    He highlighted the importance of local content provisions in the insurance sector, particularly within the aviation industry, while also addressing global risk-sharing practices.

    The Commissioner stressed the need to develop local capacity and expertise in aviation insurance, noting that this would help reduce capital flight and support the growth of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    By retaining more insurance business within Nigeria, the country would be better positioned to manage its own risks, rather than relying on foreign reinsurers for coverage, which has led to significant capital outflow over the years.

    Both the Minister and the Commissioner reiterated their commitment to ensuring that the outcomes of the stakeholders’ meeting would align with the federal government’s broader goals of enhancing the aviation and insurance sectors, promoting local content, and fostering the growth of Nigeria’s economy.

    The upcoming meeting will bring together representatives from NAICOM, major airline operators and regulators, insurance providers, and other relevant stakeholders, all of whom will work towards developing solutions that promote the long-term sustainability and growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector.

    This initiative is seen as a positive step towards creating a more efficient, robust, and competitive aviation industry, while also contributing to the overall economic development of the nation.

  • Keyamo, Boeing seal MoU

    Keyamo, Boeing seal MoU

    Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Boeing, one of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, on equipment acquisition.

    Keyamo described the initiative as part of a landmark move aimed at advancing Nigeria’s aviation sector.

    Besides, the MoU is expected to catalyze significant improvements in Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and operational standards, further positioning the country as a key player in the global aviation industry.

    The signing ceremony took place in Seattle, Washington with key Nigerian aviation stakeholders, including executives from major Nigerian airlines, top management team of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority in attendance.

    The MoU was signed by the  Minister and Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa,  marking  a significant step forward in enhancing the operational efficiency and safety of Nigerian airlines while positioning them for growth in the global aviation market.

    Boeing, according to the deal, will leverage its extensive network of financiers and lessors to help Nigerian airlines acquire newer generation aircraft, thus modernizing their fleets.

    Boeing, highlights of the MoU indicate  will provide enhanced technical support to assist airlines in the introduction of new or used Boeing aircraft, ensuring smooth integration into existing operations.

    The agreement also includes provisions for comprehensive training in airline operations and business models, aimed at improving the business practices and operational efficiency of Nigerian airlines.

    Boeing, according to the deal will grant Nigerian airlines access to its vast repository of maintenance documents, engineering drawings, parts purchasing, and flight operations documents, streamlining maintenance practices and reducing operational downtimes.

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    Boeing, if further indicates will provide on-site Field Services Representation in Nigeria or nearby locations, offering immediate support to airlines as they navigate operational challenges.

    A leadership-development training program, the MoU indicates will be implemented to strengthen the leadership pipeline within Nigerian airlines, ensuring sustained growth and excellence.

    Boeing will collaborate with Nigerian airlines on in-flight operations, maintenance, and engineering to enhance safety and operational efficiency across the board.

    In partnership with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Boeing will work closely with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and regional regulators to bolster safety oversight within the region.

    Boeing’s Airports Engineering team will provide consultation to open or expand airport capabilities across Nigeria and offer advisory services on the development of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.

    Speaking on the occasion, the Nigeria Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, emphasized the importance of the MoU in supporting the growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector. “This partnership with Boeing represents a significant milestone in our efforts to modernize and enhance the capabilities of Nigerian airlines. The benefits of this MoU will be far-reaching, not only in improving the operational efficiency of our airlines but also in ensuring the safety and reliability of air travel in Nigeria,” he said.

    Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa at Boeing, Anbessie Yitbarek,  expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: “We are excited to work closely with Nigeria’s aviation stakeholders to deliver tailored solutions that will help Nigerian airlines thrive in the competitive global aviation landscape. This MoU underscores our commitment to supporting the growth and development of aviation in Africa.”

  • Keyamo begs aviation union to shelve planned protest over 50 percent deduction

    Keyamo begs aviation union to shelve planned protest over 50 percent deduction

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has appealed to aviation workers to stop their planned protest over the federal government’s deduction of 50% of all internally generated revenue of Aviation Agencies at the source.

    The Minister said concerns of the workers, especially regarding the negative impact the deductions have on investment, maintenance of critical infrastructure, and overall operations of the Agencies, have been duly noted.

    He added that President Bola Tinubu would give their demands due consideration as he was concerned about the growth in the sector.

    The Minister, in a statement in Abuja on Friday, stated: “We understand the significance of the issues raised and recognize the vital role that our aviation workforce plays in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and smooth operation of the industry.

     “The Ministry is committed to addressing these challenges in a manner that ensures the continued viability and sustainability of the sector while maintaining the highest standards of service delivery.

    “We assure the workers’ Unions and other stakeholders that His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is very concerned about the improvement of the Aviation sector and will give their demands due consideration to find a lasting solution that balances both the fiscal needs of the government and the operational requirements of the Aviation Agencies.

    “We appeal to all workers to remain calm and maintain industrial peace while the Government is working assiduously towards amicably resolving the matter.”

    Read Also: Keyamo leads delegation to Europe over Abuja second runway project

    He added that the Ministry appreciates the patience and understanding of the workers and remains committed to ensuring a conducive work environment for all.

    The union had, in a letter dated August 14th and titled, “Save Aviation from Collapse- Notice of Nationwide Protest’, directed all aviation workers to embark on a nationwide peaceful protest on 21st August.

    The unions are the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSAN) the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE); the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) and Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Services Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE).

    The letter reads: “All workers of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA); Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET); Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) and Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), joined by solidarity of all aviation workers are hereby directed to embark on peaceful protests at all airports nationwide on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 to demand the discontinuation of deduction of 50% from the internally generated revenue of the agencies mentioned above through exemption,.

     “All efforts on our part have failed to impress upon the federal government that all the agencies are cost recovery and not profit-making organisations. As such, they cannot survive on half of their incomes under any model of administration or any other guise whatsoever.

     “Information available to us indicates that some important safety critical activities of the agencies are grinding to a halt under the yoke of the deductions.

    “It has, therefore, become incumbent on us as trade unions and workers in aviation to let the public and the government be aware that we shall bear no responsibility in the certain event that the industry becomes dysfunctional as a result of financial incapacity due to the deductions at source.”

  • Keyamo leads delegation to Europe over Abuja second runway project

    Keyamo leads delegation to Europe over Abuja second runway project

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has led a delegation to Helsinki, Finland, and Vienna, Austria, for factory inspections and familiarization meetings with two aviation infrastructure equipment manufacturers, Vaisala and Frequentis AG, for the supply of infrastructural equipment for the construction of the on-going Abuja second runway.

    The delegation included the Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Faruk Ahmed Umar; the Director-General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), Prof. Charles Anosike; and the Director of Engineering, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Engr. Abiola Adejare.

    The visit was initiated by the Managing Director of Avsatel, Georg Eder, and his deputy, Engr. Abdullahi Bayi, alongside the project’s Chief Consultant on Airfield Lighting (AFL), NavAids, Communications, and Meteorology, KEFE Engineering Limited, Engr. Mohammed Sodiq.

    The delegation at Helsinki, Finland, inspected the weather radar at Helsinki Airport, after which they had a comprehensive meeting with the management and a visit to the manufacturing plant of Vaisala OYJ, the world’s largest developer and manufacturer of meteorological equipment.

    The delegation was received by Vaisala’s Mauri Vapola, Application Manager; Juha Salmivaara, R&D Manager; and Kimmo Rustolainen, Director for MEA for Central Asia and Ukraine.

    Read Also: Nigeria Air: AON hails Tinubu, Keyamo on court’s verdict

    According to a statement on Wednesday by the Media Aide to the Minister, Tunde Moshood, the Vaisala team during the meeting provided an in-depth overview of the company’s core specializations, including Automatic Weather Observing Systems (AWOS), Runway Visual Range (RVR), Windshear Alert Systems, Weather Radar Integration, Lightning Information Integration and Runway Management.

    According to the statement, the Nigerian delegation was taken on a tour of the meteorological equipment at Helsinki Airport and provided valuable insights into the operational efficiency and technological advancements of the equipment.

    In Vienna, Austria, the delegation met with the management and visited the manufacturing plant of Frequentis AG, a global leader in voice communication and control systems for air traffic management.

    The Vice President and Head of the Global Sales Group for Frequentis AG, Dr. Bernd Novak, presented an overview of their state-of-the-art Voice Communications Switch.

    Following the presentation, NAMA MD and NiMet DG, Engr. Faruk Ahmed Umar and Prof. Charles Anosike discussed the importance of synchronizing weather and radar applications on the same software platform to enhance safety and operational effectiveness.

    This collaborative approach is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of air traffic management and weather forecasting in Nigeria.

    Commenting on the importance of the visit, Keyamo said: “This visit is a crucial step in ensuring that our aviation infrastructure is equipped with the latest technologies to enhance safety and efficiency.

    “The partnerships we are forging with industry leaders like Vaisala and Frequentis AG are vital for the successful implementation of our projects, such as the Abuja second runway,”

  • Nigeria Air: AON hails Tinubu, Keyamo on court’s verdict

    Nigeria Air: AON hails Tinubu, Keyamo on court’s verdict

    Umbrella body of local carriers, Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo for withstanding pressure in ensuring that the controversial national carrier – Nigeria Airways was finally nullified by the judicial arm of government.

    The AON, according to its President, Alhaji Abdulmunaf Yunusa Sarina, said the position of the judiciary in putting an end to the phoney project has exonerated the airlines’ body which went to court to protect the interest of Nigerians as well as proving truly to be the hope of the common man.

    In statement signed on behalf of AON, Sarina said: “We therefore thank the court for standing tall in the face of untold pressure from very high quarters and for exonerating AON and other well-meaning Nigerian indigenous Airlines for going to court to protect the interest of Nigeria as well as proving truly to be the only hope of the common man.

    “We equally thank and laud President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government as represented by the current Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo for suspending the Nigeria Air process as planned by the former Minister of Aviation, and for being bold and courageous on this issue. Mr. Keyamo saw the truth and aligned with the truth for the sake of the country.”

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    The AON), also lauded  the Judiciary for upholding justice and standing for what is right in its delivery of judgment against the purported sale of Nigeria Air to Ethiopian Airlines under the guise of setting up a National Carrier.

    Justice A. Alagoa of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos had declared in the judgment that the action, conduct and or decisions in the sale of the shares and operations of  Nigeria Air were in violation of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020, SEC Nigeria Consolidated Rules & Regulations 2013 (as amended in 2022), Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) Act, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Convention, Civil Aviation Act, Public Procurement Act, Concession Regulatory Commission (Est.) Act, 2005, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, Procurement Processes for Public Private Partnership in the Federal Government under the National Policy on Public Private Partnership (N4P) and Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, 2015 and other regulatory statutes on aviation, companies and investment laws in Nigeria.

    The Court also stood firm on the path of truth by declaring that the entire administrative actions and decisions in the sale of the shares of the so called Nigeria Air to Ethiopian Airlines and its pseudo “consortium” is invalid, void and of no effect; adding that Ethiopian Airlines was incompetent to bid for shares in Nigeria Air and commence business accordingly.

    To this end, the court therefore gave an Order setting aside the entire bidding/selection process(es) for the “Nigeria Air” project as well as the approval, grant or selection of Ethiopian Airlines by the former Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika in the process.

    The court also gave an Order directing the immediate revocation and cancellation of the Air Transport License (ATL) issued by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to Nigeria Air Limited; and issued a perpetual injunction  restraining the defendants, their agents, servants, officers, privies, and principals from perfecting, continuing and transferring the operations of Nigeria Air by the former Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika and to Ethiopian Airlines.

    Commenting on the judgment of the court ,  Sarina said; “The bold and patriotic Declarations and Orders made by the court today leaves no one in doubt that the entire bidding, approval and so called unveiling processes of the purported national carrier was nothing other than a sham set up to hoodwink Nigerians.

    “ It was also a surreptitious plan to kill Nigerian indigenous airlines and handover the commonwealth of Nigeria’s huge aviation market with over 85 Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASA) around the world to Ethiopian Airlines through the back door without investing a penny into the Nigerian economy and in an attempt to satisfy the whims and caprices of some selfish and unpatriotic individuals.”