Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has reaffirmed the country’s leadership role in the aviation sector across West Africa following his recent appointment as Chairman of the Banjul Accord Group Council. This appointment, according to Keyamo, signifies international recognition of Nigeria’s aviation reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
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Keyamo attributed this progress to the government’s sweeping policy reforms, which have restored direction and confidence in Nigeria’s aviation landscape. Unlike in the past, where the sector lacked a clear roadmap, the Ministry has now introduced strategic reforms aimed at long-term development.
Among the major achievements highlighted by the Minister are Nigeria’s adoption and implementation of key international frameworks such as the Cape Town Convention and IDERA (Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorisation). These frameworks have significantly improved Nigeria’s standing in the global aviation community, especially regarding aircraft leasing and insurance policies. Notably, Nigeria’s score on the Aviation Working Group’s rating has jumped from 49.5% to 75.5%, currently the highest in Africa.
Keyamo emphasized that Nigeria has become a top-rated jurisdiction for aircraft leasing on the continent, and that global investors now have renewed confidence in doing business with Nigerian operators. He acknowledged, however, that a global shortage of aircraft is delaying the visible impact of these reforms, but assured that as new manufacturers like China’s Comac enter the scene, availability will improve.
In response to longstanding complaints about high operating costs, multiple taxes, and levies from airline operators, Keyamo clarified that while some issues fall outside his purview, the federal government is already addressing them. A dedicated committee is currently working to harmonize and reduce taxes within the aviation sector, a move supported by the President who is keen on improving the ease of doing business across sectors.
He also addressed the historical reluctance of global aircraft lessors to bring modern aircraft into Nigeria. According to Keyamo, poor enforcement mechanisms and lack of legal protection in the past deterred investment. However, with the current legal and policy structures in place, that narrative is changing.
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Speaking on Nigeria’s position regarding the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), Keyamo confirmed that Nigeria is playing a leadership role in pushing forward the initiative, which aims to liberalize civil aviation across Africa.
With two years into his tenure, Keyamo remains optimistic about the future of aviation in Nigeria. He pledged continued support for reforms that would position the country not only as a regional hub but also as a trusted global aviation partner.
