Nigeria to strengthen policies to boost aviation sector — Keyamo

Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo. Credit: Festus Keyamo / X

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Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, says the Federal Government is ready to improve policies to grow the aviation sector.

Keyamo made the remarks on Thursday during the closing ceremony of the maiden edition of the Nigeria International Airshow held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

He said the Federal Government would enhance the regulatory framework to meet international standards and invest in infrastructure development, including airport upgrades.

The minister added that the government would place greater focus on safety and security protocols to promote growth in the local aviation industry.

Keyamo reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to developing world-class aviation infrastructure and capabilities, noting major strides in aircraft maintenance and training.

He said the airshow aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s broader vision of a safe, secure and globally competitive aviation sector capable of stimulating economic growth, boosting tourism and advancing national security.

“It would be recalled that the Nigeria Air Force set the tone with a captivating aerial demonstration featuring select ceremonial aircraft, showcasing Nigeria’s growing aerospace capability.

“The Nigeria International Airshow serves as more than an exhibition — it is a forward-looking declaration of national ambition.

“It brings together international manufacturers, innovators, regulators, airlines, investors and aviation enthusiasts to explore opportunities, share knowledge and showcase cutting-edge technologies,’’ he said.

Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria on the sidelines of the event, Francis Odita, Director of Special Duties, Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, described the outcome of the airshow as a major step forward for Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Odita said, “For Nigeria, hosting NIA 2025 is a great opportunity to showcase its aviation potential and attract investment.

“This NIA 2025 is really fostering national pride, showcasing the country’s capabilities, and facilitating connections between industry professionals, government and business.

“Certainly, it has created temporary and potential permanent jobs in aviation, hospitality and related sectors, with the promotion of national tourism,” he said.

According to him, the NSIB conducts thorough and impartial investigations to determine the circumstances and causes of accidents and serious incidents without assigning blame or liability.

“The ultimate goal is to improve safety by providing safety recommendations based on the findings of its investigations, which helps prevent future accidents.

“As of the NSIB Act of 2022, its responsibilities have expanded beyond air accidents to include investigations in maritime, rail and road transport, making it a multimodal agency.

“The NSIB was established to replace the Accident Investigation Bureau, which was previously responsible for investigating air accidents and incidents in Nigeria or involving Nigerian-registered aircraft elsewhere,” he said.

The director added that the NSIB collaborates with national and international bodies to uncover the root causes of accidents and enhance safety standards.

(NAN)

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