The Federal Government has endorsed the proposed Fly Nigeria Act to empower domestic airlines and stimulate growth in the country’s aviation sector.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement in Abuja, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, highlighted that the Act aims to strengthen local airlines, ensuring fair competition and addressing global aviation politics that hinder the growth of indigenous carriers.
Keyamo explained that the Act mandates government-financed air transportation of personnel, contractors, grantees, and properties to be carried exclusively by Nigerian flag carriers. This policy, he noted, is modeled after the Cabotage Act in the maritime sector.
According to the Minister, the Act will foster job creation, drive infrastructure development, and align Nigeria’s aviation policies with global standards. He emphasized its importance in revitalizing the sector, instilling national pride, and creating a sustainable industry.
Keyamo accused international airlines and external interests of suppressing the growth of Nigeria’s aviation market. “Global aeropolitics has been cleverly designed to stunt the development of African airlines,” he said, adding that these entities thrive on Africa’s market dominance without fostering healthy competition.
“This bill has been delayed for over 15 years due to a mix of internal and external influences. It’s time for us to rise above these challenges and empower our airlines to negotiate on a level playing field,” Keyamo added.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting local airlines before considering the establishment of a national carrier. “With our population, size, and traffic, Nigeria can support multiple thriving local operators. Once they are stable and competitive globally, we can discuss a national carrier if necessary,” he said.
Allen Onyema, Vice President of the Airline Operators of Nigeria and CEO of Air Peace, praised the government’s reforms in the aviation sector, describing them as a “new dawn.” He acknowledged the support local airlines have received under the current administration, noting that these changes have created an enabling environment for growth.
“The government has shifted from blaming operators for capacity issues to providing the necessary support for us to succeed,” Onyema stated.
Keyamo expressed optimism that the Act will expand route options, attract investors, and ensure that Nigeria’s aviation industry becomes globally competitive.
