The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has revealed plans to concession some airports to reputable foreign investors.
This was confirmed by a statement on Tuesday signed by the Special Adviser, Digital Media to the minister, Gbenga Saka.
The Aviation Minister said this at the side events of the Airline Economics Conference holding in Dublin, Ireland, from January 12th to 15th, 2025, at the invitation of Boeing Company.
In a tweet seen by NewsNGR, the media aide disclosed that Keyamo โshowcased Nigeriaโs plans to establish global-standard Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, implementing cost-effective aircraft maintenance to encourage dry-leasing models and concession airports to reputable global operators to enhance their appeal and competitiveness.โ
The minister highlighted the significant advancements made in Nigeriaโs aviation sector under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The statement said, โAddressing a global audience of aviation leaders, lessors, and financiers, the Minister emphasised Nigeriaโs commitment to transforming its aviation sector into a global player.โ
According to the statement, Keyamo advocated for partnerships and innovative financing solutions, including affordable operating leases, to bolster the sectorโs growth and development.
He noted that the minister addressed critical industry concerns, including airline insurance placement, the reliability of Nigerian airlines in meeting financial obligations under challenging conditions, and issues surrounding withholding tax policies.
The statement added, โThe ministerโs efforts to position Nigeria as a West African aviation hub, leveraging its strategic location and population, earned widespread commendation.
โHis leadership has been pivotal in removing Nigeria from the global aviation blacklist with the signing of the IDERA agreement, setting an example for other Africanย nations.โ