…as NiGAV awards celebrate excellence, unity in Nigeria’s Aviation Industry
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, has reaffirmed the pivotal role of the aviation industry in Nigeria’s economic transformation.
This is just as he highlighted ongoing reforms and renewed investment strategies aimed at boosting the sector’s growth and sustainability.
Keyamo stated this at the 2024 Nigeria Aviation (NiGAV) Awards and Ministerial Dinner with them: “Foundation for Accelerated Aviation Growth”, in Lagos.
The minister, described the aviation sector as one of the fastest-growing in the country, noting that it serves as a primary catalyst for national economic development, regional integration, and global trade.
“Aviation is not just about transportation; it is central to national social and economic inclusion, and is crucial to Nigeria’s leadership in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)”.
He emphasized the federal government’s commitment to strengthening the industry through infrastructure investment and the promotion of public-private partnerships.
The minister who was represented by the Director General, Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, said that upon assuming office, he developed a strategic agenda focused on making Nigerian air transport a preferred and safe mode of travel.
“We are driving this through a fact-based planning programme designed to ensure sustainable success and a strong return on investment for stakeholders,” he said.
The minister expressed optimism that, by the end of 2025, the administration’s efforts would yield measurable improvements in safety, operational stability, and passenger confidence, goals he hopes will be recognized by future NiGAV awards.
He called for a united industry effort in realizing these goals, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This aspiration will require collective commitment. I sincerely call on every stakeholder to join hands in delivering a prosperous aviation sector”.
He further disclosed that his administration is committed to promoting excellence through strengthened regulation and oversight, particularly by empowering the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) with enhanced support.
According to Keyamo efforts are ongoing to reposition Nigeria’s airport subsector for greater efficiency and long-term stability.
“All agencies under my ministry are recalibrating in line with current development trends to improve service delivery and ensure prudent management,” he concluded.
Highlighting the uniqueness of the NiGAV Awards, he commended the inclusion of a cabin crew contest, which crowns winners as “King and Queen of the Air” based on inflight service excellence.
The minister praised the initiative for fostering unity among airlines and promoting service quality.
Keyamo also lauded the industry’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative tied to the cabin crew contest, describing it as a noble gesture that enhances social integration and harmony, values the ministry is ready to support.
More than 60 organizations and individuals received awards across various categories at this year’s event, reflecting the industry’s growing capacity and contribution to national development.
