The Federal Government has announced a shift in its aviation strategy, declaring that it will now be paying attention to policies that can strengthen local airlines against the widespread calls for a national carrier.

This announcement was made in Lagos by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during the launch of a book authored by veteran aviation journalist, Wole Shadare, titled “100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria: History, Issues and Prospects.”

Keyamo emphasised that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is focused on creating a more supportive environment for domestic carriers.

He said, “Recent policy reforms, including revised insurance regulations for leased aircraft, have made aircraft acquisition easier and are expected to help bring down airfares across the country.

“Our focus has shifted,” Keyamo stated. “We are now committed to promoting the growth of local operators through targeted policies.”

He also noted efforts to train and retrain air traffic personnel, address revenue leakages, and enhance efficiency within the aviation sector.

In another significant move, the minister revealed that nearly all foreign airlines operating in Nigeria now comply with the government’s directive to use local catering services for in-flight meals.

Additionally, he announced plans to construct a smart airport, pending presidential approval. Keyamo criticised the deteriorating condition of the old terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, saying it has remained unchanged since 1997. He stressed the urgent need for a complete rebuild.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Olubunmi Kuku, highlighted the sector’s growth. She reported that Nigeria currently boasts 39 certified airline operators, 31 airports, and over 2,100 licensed pilots.

While saying the aviation industry contributes about $1.7bn to Nigeria’s GDP, the FAAN MD acknowledged existing challenges such as outdated infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and financing gaps, but urged investors to view these as opportunities for development.

She said, “Nevertheless, this journey has not been devoid of turbulence. Upon Nigeria’s attainment of independence in 1960, we were faced with a pivotal question: How could we convert colonial-era infrastructure into a sovereign aviation powerhouse? Our national carrier, Nigeria Airways, emerged as a response, yet it soon faced challenges stemming from mismanagement and operational inefficiencies. By the early 2000s, we found ourselves at a crossroads—adapt or risk obsolescence.

“This juncture precipitated a remarkable transformation. The private sector took the initiative, introducing fresh capital, contemporary management practices, and a competitive spirit. Companies such as Air Peace and Arik Air did not merely fill the void—they revolutionised our aviation landscape. The current figures sum up this transformation: 39 certified airline operators, 31 airports nationwide, over 2,100 licensed pilots, a workforce comprising thousands, ranging from engineers to air traffic controllers.

“Nigeria has emerged as a testament to the efficacy of market-driven solutions. Our aviation sector now contributes approximately $1.7 billion to our GDP. Private airlines are connecting our cities with unprecedented efficiency, and international carriers increasingly regard Nigeria as a critical market. Last year, over 16 million passengers traversed our domestic terminals, while international passenger numbers exceeded 3.5 million. These figures are indeed impressive, yet there remains substantial potential for growth.”

The author of the commemorative book, Shadare, described it as a detailed 25-chapter chronicle that captures the history, challenges, and future potential of Nigeria’s aviation sector over the past century. He said the book serves as a valuable resource for scholars and industry researchers alike.