Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, pledged on Friday to implement the long-awaited Fly Nigeria Act during his tenure, vowing to support local airlines and protect Nigeria’s aviation market.
Keyamo, speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, highlighted that the bill—proposed over 15 years ago—mandates government-funded travel to prioritize Nigerian flag carriers. “This will happen under my watch,” he assured.
The Minister emphasised the importance of fostering indigenous aviation growth, citing challenges posed by foreign airlines. “Air France, Delta, Lufthansa—all fly full planes in and out of Nigeria, dominated by Nigerians. Yet our local carriers face unfair competition,” Keyamo noted.
Nigeria’s aviation market, valued at over $4.4 billion in 2023, remains heavily reliant on foreign carriers, with domestic airlines operating at just 20% of total international routes. Stakeholders argue that the Fly Nigeria Act could reverse this trend.
Allen Onyema, Vice President of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and Chairman of Air Peace, hailed the move as “a new dawn” for Nigeria’s aviation sector. “This legislation can redefine our industry and empower local operators,” he said.
Reviving Dormant Policies
The Fly Nigeria Act was initially proposed by Babatunde Omotoba, a former Minister of Aviation, but has languished without progress. Keyamo attributed this to systemic delays and external pressures undermining local airlines.
“We have revived neglected policies like the Cape Town Convention and the Cabotage Act for shipping,” said Keyamo. “Aviation deserves the same commitment. It is time to shield our market from global exploitation.”
Keyamo also criticised foreign airlines’ dominance across Africa, describing it as part of a “global conspiracy” to stifle the growth of local carriers. “Policies like the Fly Nigeria Act will level the playing field for Nigerian airlines at negotiation tables,” he added.
Stakeholder Support
Legal expert Olisa Agbakoba presented a comprehensive framework for the proposed bill, emphasising its potential to bolster Nigeria’s aviation sector. “This is not just policy; it’s survival for our industry,” Agbakoba said.
The bill, if passed, will mandate that government-funded trips prioritize Nigerian flag carriers over foreign airlines, including regional and international routes. Stakeholders believe this could generate $200 million annually for domestic carriers and reduce dependence on foreign airlines.
Keyamo closed the session by assuring stakeholders of more initiatives to support local airlines. “This is just the beginning,” he said.
