Abuja, Sept. 13, 2023 – Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, says the federal government is determined to take the aviation sector to new heights by tackling current challenges head on.
He said this would enable the sector attract foreign investors and make it a hub in Africa.
Keyamo, made the promise at the 7th Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition 2023 in Abuja on Wednesday.
“The government is already looking at the Aircraft Leasing Company, Aircraft Maintenance organisation, Forex availability and Tax holidays to improve the aviation business in Nigeria.
”This includes upgrading the Cat3 landing system at major airports, construction of the second runway in Abuja, airport improvement programmes through concessions, and the government’s willingness to partner with companies to turn major airports into aeropolis.
“The government welcomes major players in aircraft leasing and Head lessors to invest in Nigeria Airlines to provide state-of-the-art aircraft.
”With the shortage of qualified engineers, the current administration is willing to provide all the necessary support for the establishment of a world-class MROS and training organisation.
“The current administration is aware that one of the setbacks entrepreneurs have suffered in Nigeria in recent years is the fluctuation of foreign exchange and its availability.
“This administration is committed to ensuring that forex is readily available to entrepreneurs, and I have directed that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) hold quarterly reconciliation meetings with a view to resolving this issue,” he said.
