The Federal Government has officially abandoned the controversial national carrier project and shifted its focus to supporting the growth of Nigeria’s domestic airlines. This was disclosed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, during the launch of a new aviation book in Lagos.
Speaking at the unveiling of ‘100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria: History, Issues and Prospects’, authored by aviation journalist Wole Shadare, Keyamo said that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has chosen to strengthen existing local airlines instead of pursuing a state-owned carrier.
“We have shifted focus to ensure growth and development for local operators through our policies,” the minister stated. He explained that recent policy changes, such as new insurance regulations for leased aircraft, are already making it easier for airlines to operate and are helping reduce ticket costs on domestic routes.
In a related development, Keyamo also revealed plans to demolish the old terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, describing its current state as unsatisfactory. He noted that a new terminal would be built in its place as part of efforts to modernise the nation’s aviation infrastructure.
“We are committed to making sure our facilities meet global standards. The condition of the old MMIA terminal is not acceptable,” Keyamo said.
He added that the government has also tackled revenue leakages and is training air traffic personnel to improve efficiency and safety across the country’s airspace.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, gave a broader view of the sector’s performance. According to her, Nigeria currently has 39 certified airlines, 31 airports, and over 2,100 licensed pilots. She said the aviation sector contributes about \$1.7 billion to Nigeria’s GDP.
“Private airlines like Air Peace and Arik Air have changed the game,” Kuku said. “We are now connecting cities faster, and international carriers view Nigeria as a key market. Last year alone, over 16 million domestic passengers and 3.5 million international passengers used our airports.”
Despite achievements, Kuku acknowledged challenges such as poor infrastructure, regulatory bottlenecks, and the need for more investment. However, she expressed optimism, noting that Nigeria’s aviation story is now a model for market-driven growth in Africa.
Highlighting the sector’s transformation, she said: “After independence in 1960, Nigeria Airways was our pride. But due to mismanagement, it failed. The private sector stepped in and has since turned things around.”
The author of the book, Mr. Wole Shadare, said the 25-chapter publication captures the highs and lows of the industry over the past century. He believes the book will serve as a vital resource for students, researchers, and policymakers interested in Nigeria’s aviation history and future.
The event brought together stakeholders from across the aviation industry and provided a platform to reflect on its past, celebrate recent progress, and discuss the road ahead.
