NAMA lauds transformative initiatives of aviation minister as Keyamo courts French investors
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has hailed the forward-thinking initiatives put forth by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, as he leads a Nigerian delegation on a mission to bolster the country’s aviation sector.
In a statement signed by Abdullahi Musa, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NAMA, the Agency said it anticipates a transformative phase in the nation’s aviation sector, spurred by Minister Keyamo’s visionary approach and strategic engagements with international partners.
NAMA disclosed that during a four-day bilateral working visit to France, Minister Keyamo emphasised the critical need for infrastructure upgrades and extended invitations to private investors to participate in this ambitious venture.
Dubbed the Nigeria France Bilateral Business Forum, the visit seeks to fortify collaboration and explore lucrative business prospects in aviation between Nigeria and France.
Accompanied by eminent CEOs and directors from various Nigerian aviation agencies, including NAMA’s Managing Director, Engr. Farouk Ahmed, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, MD of FAAN, and Capt. Chris Najomo, Acting Director General of NCAA, the delegation embarked on a comprehensive exploration of aviation business opportunities across key French cities including Paris, Marseille, Toulouse, and Orly.
The bilateral discussions kicked off with Minister Keyamo meeting with the Director General of the French Civil Aviation, Damien Caze, and his team.
Keyamo presented an enticing roadmap for Nigeria’s aviation industry, highlighting the urgent necessity for infrastructure upgrades, calling for private sector involvement.
Throughout the sessions, Nigerian delegates, including representatives from NAMA, FAAN, and NCAA, delivered insightful presentations on topics such as aircraft financing, insurance, modernisation of navigational equipment, and capacity-building initiatives.
French aviation stakeholders, including PROAVIA, ASTech Paris Region, and BPI France, expressed keen interest in partnering with Nigeria, recognising the country’s immense potential in the aviation sector.
Vice President of AerCap, Gad Wavomba, also pledged to explore business opportunities with Nigeria, citing its attractiveness for investment.
Following meetings in Paris, the delegation will proceed to Marseille, visit the Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, and conclude business discussions in Orly with an audience with the management of Thales.
Minister Keyamo expressed confidence in the outcomes of the visit, stating, “We are confident that this bilateral engagement will pave the way for fruitful collaborations and investment opportunities in Nigeria’s aviation industry.”
