Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development
Sade Williams/Business a.m.
Domestic airline owners under the aegis of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have welcomed the retention of Festus Keyamo as minister of aviation and aerospace development by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after a cabinet reshuffle that saw the exit of at least six ministers.
The association said that the decision reflects the president’s keen judgement and steadfast commitment to the growth and advancement of the aviation industry in Nigeria.
The AON, in a statement signed by Abdulmunaf Yunusa Sarina, its president, said since his initial appointment, Keyamo has demonstrated exceptional leadership, setting a new standard for the aviation sector, adding that his relentless efforts and advocacy for policies that ensure the ease of doing business have brought about significant positive changes.
“AON members are proud to affirm that, under his stewardship, we have never had it this good. His proactive engagement with the industry, his focus on safety, and his commitment to the success of both local and international airlines have restored confidence in the sector. It is clear that he has the best interests of the nation and the aviation sector at heart,” Sarina stated.
According to the AON, Keyamo’s dedication to implementing the Cape Town Convention, played a pivotal role in improving Nigeria’s aviation rating from 40 percent to about 80 percent in a short period of time, adding that his efforts in ensuring compliance with international standards facilitated greater access to aircraft financing and leasing, which bolstered the operational capacity of airlines and contributed significantly to the sector’s growth.
The association described Keyamo’s reappointment as a testament to President Tinubu’s vision of excellence and progress for Nigeria, noting that it believes that every government is ultimately judged by the calibre of individuals appointed to critical positions. “In Festus Keyamo, the President has made an outstanding choice, ensuring that Nigeria’s aviation sector remains in capable and visionary hands,” AON stated.
Members of AON pledged continued support for Keyamo as he leads the industry through what they called an “era of unprecedented growth and innovation in the aviation industry.
“We also commend President Tinubu for his remarkable foresight and wisdom in entrusting the future of Nigerian aviation to such an able leader. Together, we are confident that the skies of Nigeria will continue to soar higher, and the country’s aviation sector will remain a beacon of excellence on the African continent,” the statement reads.
