AON Applauds Aviation Minister Keyamo for Transformative Support to Indigenous Airlines
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has lauded the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his resolute commitment to the advancement and sustainability of indigenous airlines in the country.
In a passionate statement issued on Sunday and signed by the Vice President of AON, Chief Allen Onyema, the association hailed the Minister’s proactive leadership and vision for the aviation sector, describing him as a “God-sent” figure whose impact has begun to redefine the industry’s future.
“Love him or hate him, believe it or not, Festus Keyamo is absolutely God-sent to Nigeria’s aviation industry,” Onyema declared. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a genius when selecting the right persons for strategic positions of immense national importance. The appointment of Keyamo is one made right.”
Since his assumption of office in August 2023, Keyamo has articulated and implemented a bold 5-point agenda aimed at transforming Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
Central to this agenda is the strategic support for the growth and sustainability of local airlines, while ensuring that operators adhere to globally recognised standards of excellence.
According to the AON, the Minister has not only shown a profound understanding of the unique challenges confronting the sector but has also displayed the political will to tackle them head-on.
His initiatives, the association noted, have begun to yield significant results, particularly in improving access to aircraft and strengthening the capacity of domestic carriers.
“This Minister has repositioned Nigeria’s aviation and Nigeria positively on the global scene,” Onyema stated. “In the coming weeks, Nigerian airlines will begin receiving the all-important dry-leased aircraft – a landmark development that will empower operators to grow their fleets with greater ease and affordability.”
The AON also extended its appreciation to President Tinubu for his unwavering support of the Minister’s vision, noting that the administration’s commitment to indigenous airlines marks a welcome departure from the past.
“We commend the Federal Government for seeking ways to address the capacity challenges faced by local airlines, rather than demonising them for lack of capacity – an ugly trend that marred the past. This new direction reflects true leadership and patriotic pragmatism,” the statement read.
Looking ahead, the Airline Operators of Nigeria pledged continued cooperation with the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to achieve global competitiveness, enhanced safety, and operational reliability across the aviation sector.
The AON’s ringing endorsement of Minister Keyamo’s leadership comes at a time when Nigerian aviation is poised for a significant leap, signalling renewed optimism among operators and stakeholders alike.
