….. championing growth of Nigerian airlines
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has lauded the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for what it describes as his transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to the growth of the nation’s local carriers.
In a statement signed by its Vice President, Chief Allen Onyema, the association hailed Keyamo as a “God-sent” figure whose proactive reforms have begun to reposition Nigeria’s aviation sector for long-term sustainability and global relevance.
Since his appointment in August 2023, the Minister has introduced a series of targeted initiatives aimed at strengthening the industry, with a particular focus on supporting indigenous airlines while enforcing high international standards.
According to the AON, Keyamo has exhibited an uncommon political will, matched by a clear understanding of the operational and financial challenges facing domestic operators.
The group credited his interventionist policies with not only defending local airline interests but also securing a more prominent standing for Nigeria in the global aviation arena.
Highlighting one of the key outcomes of the Minister’s efforts, the association disclosed that Nigerian carriers are set to receive new dry-leased aircraft in the coming weeks, a development expected to ease fleet expansion and improve affordability for operators.
The move marks a significant step toward bridging capacity gaps that have long hindered the sector’s growth.
The AON also commended President Bola Tinubu for his support, describing the administration’s approach as a welcome shift from past tendencies that often blamed domestic airlines for capacity limitations.
The association emphasized that the current policy direction reflects genuine leadership, focused on pragmatic solutions rather than punitive measures.
Expressing confidence in the future of the industry, the AON reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Ministry to advance safety, competitiveness, and reliability in Nigerian aviation.
