The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has reiterated the critical role of the aviation sector in the country’s economic growth amid ongoing government reforms.
Speaking at the Eurocham Nigeria 2025 Annual Stakeholders Conference in Lagos, Keyamo, represented by his Special Adviser on Service Delivery, Janet Oputa, stressed that aviation is not just a means of transportation, but a crucial driver of economic development, regional integration, and global competitiveness.
“Our aviation sector is not just about moving people and goods; it is a critical enabler of trade, investment, and innovation. The reforms we have undertaken are geared towards making Nigeria a global aviation hub, strengthening our economy, and creating jobs,” Keyamo stated.
He emphasized the significant reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, pointing out that Nigeria’s aviation sector is experiencing unprecedented advancements as part of a wider strategy to boost key sectors like energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and trade.
The Minister also highlighted the federal government’s commitment to improving safety standards, upgrading essential aviation infrastructure, empowering local operators, investing in human capital development, and generating sustainable revenue to ensure long-term growth.
Keyamo highlighted significant achievements in the aviation sector, including Nigeria’s improved compliance with the Cape Town Convention, which rose from 49.5% to 75.5%.
He also discussed the launch of a new consumer protection portal by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, which has enhanced passenger rights and bolstered accountability.
Additionally, he pointed to major investments in the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja and Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. Notably, the construction of Abuja’s second runway has greatly improved service delivery at the airport.
The concessioning of five major airports has attracted significant private-sector investment, leading to terminal upgrades, apron expansions, and runway enhancements.
He also highlighted that partnerships with the private sector have facilitated the creation of world-class Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul facilities, reducing dependence on foreign services and generating employment opportunities.
Speaking to European business leaders, Keyamo urged them to seize opportunities in airport infrastructure development, particularly in the design and construction of new terminals, heliports, and green energy solutions such as solar-powered airports.
He also highlighted specialized services, including hangar operations, ground handling, ICT-driven security solutions, and the Abuja second runway project, as key areas that require international expertise and investment.
“By joining forces with our European partners, we can build a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive aviation industry that drives economic growth and uplifts millions of Nigerians,” he added.