As the baton of leadership in Nigeria’s aviation sector passes from the previous minister, Hadi Seriki, to the newly appointed Festus Keyamo, stakeholders are eyeing an era of change and progress. The aviation industry, like many others, had its share of controversies and challenges under the previous administration, including the contentious launch of Nigeria Air, the nation’s flagship carrier, on Seriki’s last day in office. Now, with Keyamo at the helm, industry insiders are hopeful for improvements, starting with a focus on infrastructure and overall sector reform.
Keyamo wasted no time in responding to stakeholders’ demands. During a tour of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, he announced the suspension of the Nigeria Air project and airport concession, aligning with industry calls to shift priorities towards infrastructure enhancement.
The new minister’s approach is rooted in building upon the roadmap developed by the previous administration, avoiding unnecessary reinvention. Transparency is his watchword, with an emphasis on keeping the Nigerian people informed about their government’s actions.
Stakeholders in the aviation sector are applauding Keyamo’s commitment to reform and growth. Bankole Bernard, former President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agents, emphasizes the importance of capacity development and regular stakeholder engagement. He calls for attention to the three sectors of the aviation industry, highlighting their interconnectedness and importance to its growth.
Susan Akporiaye, President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agents, expresses optimism in Keyamo’s character, expecting him to bring truth, equity, fairness, and justice to the aviation industry.
Capt. John Ojikutu (retired), CEO of Centurion Security Limited, advocates for a focus on successful airport concessions instead of the controversial national carrier. He suggests concentrating on flag carrier policies and collaborating with other ministries to review bilateral air services agreements.
Olumide Ohunayo of Aviation Round Table hopes that the new minister will provide a fresh perspective and robust legal expertise to resolve contentious agreements affecting public interest and investments.
Gbenga Olowo, former President of Aviation Round Table, suggests that the aviation ministry should become a department within the Ministry of Transportation, reducing political interference and the cost of governance.
Olayinka Abioye, an aviation labor leader, calls on Keyamo to approach the industry with an open mind and emphasizes the importance of studying the industry thoroughly.
Adeola Fadairo, an aviation expert, expects Keyamo to consult stakeholders widely and address the industry’s multifaceted problems with an open mind.
Capt. David Olubadewo, MD of Airline Management Support Limited, suggests rules and regulations to protect local airlines and the establishment of a leasing company to support the growth of Nigerian airlines.
With these expectations and calls for reform and transparency, the Nigerian aviation sector looks forward to a new chapter under Festus Keyamo’s leadership.