Nigeria's Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has unveiled plans to introduce a landmark legislation known as the 'Fly Nigerian Act'. This proposed law aims to compel all public officials, including members of the House of Representatives, the Senate, Ministers, Director-Generals, and other government personnel, to prioritize Nigerian airlines when traveling on international routes. The mandate would apply specifically if a local carrier operates on the intended destination, ensuring that national airlines receive patronage from government travel.

Keyamo made this significant proposal on Sunday during the ceremonial send-off of Air Peace's inaugural direct flight from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport. The event, held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, was attended by notable figures such as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, and the Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema. The Minister explicitly stated his intention to present the bill to Benjamin Kalu for its passage, underscoring the government's commitment to its implementation.

Explaining the rationale behind the 'Fly Nigerian Act', Keyamo highlighted that the initiative is in alignment with established global practices. He cited examples like the 'Fly American Act' and the 'Fly India Act', noting that many countries already have similar legislative frameworks in place to protect and promote their national carriers. The Minister emphasized that Nigeria should not be an exception in fostering its own aviation industry. This strategic move is expected to significantly strengthen the country’s aviation sector and instill greater confidence in domestic airlines, ultimately benefiting the national economy.

The practical application of the proposed law would be straightforward: before any government official embarks on an international journey, the primary inquiry would be whether a Nigerian airline services that particular route. If such a service exists, the official would be legally required to purchase a ticket from the Nigerian carrier, reserving other options only for routes not covered by local airlines.