By Chinelo Obogo
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has said that the Federal Government is open to receiving proposals to invest in a national carrier.
Last Friday, Keyamo was reported to have said that the Federal Government has shifted its aviation strategy and will now be paying attention to policies that could strengthen local airlines against the widespread calls for a national carrier.
However, posting on his X handle on Sunday, he said that the government is not totally against the establishment of a national carrier as being widely reported
“The correct story should be that the FG will not invest a dime in establishing a National Carrier, but is always open to proposals from private or public entities, both in and out of the country that truly benefit Nigeria and Nigerians in establishing a National Carrier. However, before that happens, we are concentrating on developing policies to ensure the growth and survival of our local operators,” he said.
During the launch of “100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria: History, Issues and Prospects” a book authored by aviation journalist, Wole Shadare, in Lagos last Friday, Keyamo said 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. We are now committed to promoting the growth of local operators through targeted policies.”
He criticised the condition of the old terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport which has remained unchanged since 1997 and announced plans to construct a smart airport, pending presidential approval.
Leave a comment