The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, for his steadfast commitment to the growth and sustainability of indigenous airlines in the country.
In a statement signed by AON vice-president, Chief Allen Onyema the association described Keyamo as “God-sent to Nigeria’s aviation industry,” praising his proactive and reform-focused leadership since assuming office in August 2023.
“Love him or hate him, believe it or not, Festus Keyamo is God-sent to Nigeria’s aviation industry,” the statement read. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deserves commendation for his wisdom in appointing the right people to crucial national positions. The appointment of Keyamo is a choice well made.”
At the start of his tenure, the minister unveiled a detailed five-point agenda aimed at transforming the aviation sector, with one key focus being “supporting the growth and sustainability of local airline businesses while holding them to the highest international standards.”
According to AON, the minister has shown rare political will and a deep understanding of the industry’s challenges. Through timely interventions and reforms, he has defended the interests of Nigerian carriers and strengthened the country’s standing in global aviation.
“This minister has positively repositioned Nigeria’s aviation sector on the global stage. In the coming weeks, Nigerian airlines will start receiving dry-leased aircraft, a landmark step that will help operators expand their fleets more easily and cost-effectively,” AON stated.
The association also commended President Bola Tinubu for fully backing Keyamo’s efforts and giving him the mandate to uplift indigenous airlines. AON expressed optimism that the industry is now on a path to sustainable growth under the current leadership.
“We appreciate the Federal Government’s resolve to address the capacity constraints facing local airlines, instead of demonising them for past shortfalls, an unfortunate pattern we saw before. This new approach demonstrates genuine leadership and patriotic pragmatism.”
AON reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Ministry to achieve global competitiveness, safety and reliability in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
