Festus Keyamo: Leading a New Era in Nigeria’s Aviation and Aerospace Sector

By Engr Oyeyemi Okekunle Okewuyi

Since taking on the role of Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development in August 2023, Festus Keyamo has been a driving force behind transformative changes that are reshaping the nation’s aviation landscape. His leadership is characterized by strategic initiatives designed to enhance infrastructure, improve regulatory compliance, and foster international collaborations.

Building a Stronger Infrastructure
One of Keyamo’s standout achievements has been the decision to relocate the headquarters of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) from Abuja to Lagos. This move not only aims to streamline operations but also to cut costs, as Lagos serves as the heart of Nigeria’s aviation activities. Under his guidance, airports are undergoing significant upgrades, such as the reactivation of the second runway at Lagos Airport, which had been inactive for nearly a year. Additionally, the remodeling of the Arrival Hall at Lagos International Airport, carried out through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), has greatly improved the passenger experience.

Strengthening Compliance and Global Standing
Keyamo has been pivotal in enhancing Nigeria’s adherence to international aviation standards. By signing the Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorization (IDERA) and aligning with the Cape Town Convention, Nigeria’s compliance score leapfrogged from 49% to an impressive 75.5%. This improvement has made it easier for the country to access aircraft financing and leasing options. His efforts culminated in Nigeria being removed from the Aviation Working Group’s watchlist of non-compliant countries, boosting the country’s standing within the global aviation community.

Addressing Financial Hurdles
Recognizing the challenges posed by trapped airline funds, Keyamo collaborated closely with the Central Bank of Nigeria to resolve a backlog exceeding $800 million. This significant effort reinstated confidence among international airlines, leading to the welcome return of services from carriers like Emirates.

Forging International Alliances
With an eye on modernizing Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, Keyamo signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Boeing to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility within the country. This partnership is expected to lower operational costs for airlines and create job opportunities for local aviation professionals. Additionally, Keyamo has been active in renewing and expanding Nigeria’s Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASAs), paving the way for new international routes and improved connectivity.

Investing in Human Capital
Understanding that a skilled workforce is vital for the industry’s growth, Keyamo has prioritized human capacity development. His move to accredit the Aerodrome Emergency Training School at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) for Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) training showcases his commitment to enhancing safety and standards in aviation.

Earning Recognition for Excellence
Keyamo’s hard work and dedication have garnered recognition. He was honored as the Best Aviation Minister in Africa by the Africa Airspace Watch Initiative, reflecting his exceptional leadership. Furthermore, The Sun Newspapers awarded him Minister of the Year 2024, reinforcing the impact of his transformative work.

Economic Contributions
Under Keyamo’s stewardship, the Nigerian aviation sector has made impressive contributions to the country’s economy, amounting to approximately $1.7 billion in GDP. This growth is a testament to increased private sector involvement and the advancements in infrastructure and regulatory frameworks.

Looking Ahead
Festus Keyamo’s tenure as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development has been marked by visionary leadership and strategic reforms that are revitalizing Nigeria’s aviation sector. His focus on infrastructure, regulatory compliance, international partnerships, and skill development has set the stage for Nigeria to emerge as a significant player in the global aviation arena. As the sector evolves, Keyamo’s contributions will undoubtedly lay a strong foundation for continued growth and advancement in the years to come.

Engr Oyeyemi Okekunle Okewuyi, is the AGM FAAN, MMIA, LAGOS