The Federal Government is set to unveil the Fly Nigeria Act, which will mandate that all government-funded air travel be conducted using Nigerian airlines.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, disclosed this at the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing organised by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in Abuja.
The initiative aims to strengthen the domestic aviation industry by ensuring Nigerian airlines benefit from government-funded travel, which will contribute to the growth of local airlines, create more routes and stimulate economic development.
Keyamo outlined several major achievements of the ministry, starting with the resumption of Emirates flights to Nigeria. He noted that Nigeria’s relationship with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has significantly improved, leading to a new Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA).
As a result, Emirates resumed flights to Nigeria on October 1 of the previous year. He further stated that Emirates has entered into a code-sharing agreement with Nigeria’s Air Peace, allowing passengers to travel from Calabar to Dubai on a single ticket. This move aligns with the ministry’s five-point agenda, which prioritises the growth and support of local airlines while ensuring international standards are maintained. He highlighted that Nigeria’s aviation industry stands out in Africa due to its 100 per cent private-sector participation, unlike other countries where airlines are subsidised by governments.
The minister also spoke about the revitalisation of Hajj terminals across the country, a significant step in facilitating smoother travel for Muslim pilgrims. Several terminals have been refurbished and reopened, improving the travel experience for religious travelers.
In a bid to curb illegal private charter operations, the ministry inaugurated a task force to address the issue. Keyamo revealed that Nigeria has lost approximately N120 billion in revenue over the past decade due to illegal charter operations. He assured that his administration is committed to cracking down on these unauthorised activities, ensuring that all private jet operators obtain the necessary licenses.
A significant milestone in Nigeria’s aviation sector is the successful establishment of the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU). The university has commenced operations, offering specialised courses in aviation and aerospace. Keyamo described AAAU as one of the best institutions of its kind in Africa, with its permanent site already in place.
Nigeria’s aviation industry has also received international recognition. The Airports Council International (ACI) awarded Abuja and Port Harcourt Airports the Outstanding Dedication to Emergency Management and Resilience award. Keyamo noted that Nigeria was rated as the number one country in Africa for emergency preparedness and resilience. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) successfully closed over 130 safety and security gaps identified by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Additionally, Abuja and Lagos international airports achieved recertification after significant improvements in safety and security standards.
To enhance aircraft acquisition, the ministry signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Boeing. Following a study that identified Nigeria as the best destination for business expansion in Africa, Boeing invited Nigerian officials to visit its facilities in the United States. The partnership covers critical areas such as aircraft acquisition and safety practices, further strengthening Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The minister also highlighted Nigeria’s signing of the Cape Town Convention, a major milestone for aircraft leasing and recovery. This agreement positions Nigeria as a secure and reliable jurisdiction for aviation businesses. With this development, Nigeria can now lease up to 40 aircraft with the same budget required to purchase one new aircraft. The country’s score for ease of doing business and aircraft recovery improved from 49 per cent to 75.5 per cent, making Nigeria the highest-ranked country in Africa in this regard.
In another major policy move, the Nigerian government has directed international airlines to patronise local catering services. Previously, many international airlines operating in Nigeria did not use local catering companies, negatively affecting the industry. The government has now mandated compliance with this directive, with airlines such as Delta and Qatar already adhering to the policy. Airlines that fail to comply within the given deadline may face delays or restrictions on their flight schedules.
Further developments in Nigeria’s aviation sector include the upgrade of the Muhammadu Buhari Airport in Borno State to international status. Keyamo stated that several new routes have been opened, enhancing air connectivity in the region. Additionally, the ministry commissioned ‘G-Gates’ in Lagos and rehabilitated the T&G Wing ahead of a full-scale renovation of the Lagos airport.
Nigeria’s aviation industry continues to gain international recognition. The country has been officially invited to participate in the Airline Economy Growth Conference in Dublin, a testament to its growing influence in the global aviation sector.
The Fly Nigeria Act is expected to serve as a major boost for local airlines by ensuring they benefit from government-funded travel. This policy aligns with the ministry’s broader objective of strengthening Nigeria’s aviation sector and ensuring its sustainability.
In his remarks at the press briefing, the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris emphasised the importance of the event in promoting transparency and public engagement. He highlighted that the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation has created this interactive platform to keep Nigerians informed about government initiatives. Idris noted that since the launch of the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series, five ministers have presented their scorecards, underscoring the administration’s commitment to accountability.
He commended the media for their dedication in covering the briefing sessions, acknowledging their role in keeping Nigerians informed about the administration’s policies and achievements. “As a cornerstone of our democracy, the media continues to play a crucial role in fostering an informed and engaged citizenry,” Idris stated.
The unveiling of the Fly Nigeria Act, along with the other initiatives highlighted by the Minister of Aviation, demonstrates the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s aviation industry. With improved policies, strategic partnerships and infrastructural developments, Nigeria’s aviation sector is poised for significant growth.
