Nigeria, Boeing deal holds technical, operational lift for aviation sector 

• MoU for aircraft acquisition; technical support; training 

Nigeria is looking to scale the operational and business levels of its aviation sector with the signing last week of a memorandum of understanding with United States’ global aircraft manufacturer Boeing. 

Sade Williams/Business a.m.

Festus Keyamo, aviation and aerospace development minister, who once made a show of his visit to Boeing’s rival, the European manufacturer, Airbus in France, is spearheading this new relationship with Boeing and sector operators and analysts of the business in Nigeria are hoping that this would jump from paper to reality and save a sector which has for long been operating with a business model that has left it stagnant in a vast country with huge population and commercial activities.

Attending in Seattle, Washington, USA, with key stakeholders, including executives from major Nigerian airlines, top management team of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and representatives from the Airline Operators of Nigeria, Keyamo signed the MoU with Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing’s vice president of commercial sales and marketing for Africa, in what is being touted as marking a significant step forward in enhancing the operational efficiency and safety of Nigerian airlines while positioning them for growth in the global aviation market.

Key highlights of the memorandum that Nigeria has entered with Boeing, according to a statement by Tunde Moshood, special assistant, media and communications to the minister, include:

Facilitation of aircraft acquisition: Boeing will leverage its extensive network of financiers and lessors to help Nigerian airlines acquire newer generation Boeing aircraft, thus modernising their fleets.

Enhanced technical support: Boeing will provide enhanced technical support to assist airlines in the introduction of new or used Boeing aircraft, ensuring smooth integration into existing operations.

Training and development: The agreement includes provisions for comprehensive training in airline operations and business models, aimed at improving the business practices and operational efficiency of Nigerian airlines.

Maintenance and engineering support: Boeing will grant Nigerian airlines access to its vast repository of maintenance documents, engineering drawings, parts purchasing, and flight operations documents, streamlining maintenance practices and reducing operational downtimes.

On-site support: Boeing will provide on-site Field Services Representation in Nigeria or nearby locations, offering immediate support to airlines as they navigate operational challenges.

Leadership development: A leadership-development training programme will be implemented to strengthen the leadership pipeline within Nigerian airlines, ensuring sustained growth and excellence.

Safety and operational efficiency: Boeing will collaborate with Nigerian airlines on in-flight operations, maintenance, and engineering to enhance safety and operational efficiency across the board.

Regulatory support: In partnership with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Boeing will work closely with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and regional regulators to bolster safety oversight within the region.

Airport and MRO development: Boeing’s Airports Engineering team will provide consultation to open or expand airport capabilities across Nigeria and offer advisory services on the development of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.

Keyamo emphasised the importance of the MoU in supporting the growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector.

“This partnership with Boeing represents a significant milestone in our efforts to modernise and enhance the capabilities of Nigerian airlines. The benefits of this MoU will be far-reaching, not only in improving the operational efficiency of our airlines but also in ensuring the safety and reliability of air travel in Nigeria,” he said.

Responding to the minister’s remarks, Boeings’ Anbessie Yitbarek expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are excited to work closely with Nigeria’s aviation stakeholders to deliver tailored solutions that will help Nigerian airlines thrive in the competitive global aviation landscape. This MoU underscores our commitment to supporting the growth and development of aviation in Africa.”

The strategic MoU is expected to catalyse significant improvements in Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and operational standards, further positioning the country as a key player in the global aviation industry.