The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has unveiled its proposed Fly Nigeria Act, a landmark legislation aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s indigenous airlines and strengthening the country’s aviation sector. The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo (SAN), emphasized that the bill, which has been in development for over 15 years, will finally become a reality under his leadership.
Speaking at the Stakeholders’ Engagement on the Legal Framework for the Fly Nigeria Bill in Abuja, Keyamo underscored the importance of prioritizing Nigerian flag carriers for government-funded travel. He stated that all official trips, whether local, regional, international, or continental, must utilize Nigerian airlines first before foreign carriers are considered. This includes connecting flights where Nigerian operators service the first leg of the journey.
“This bill is essential for the growth of our local aviation sector,” Keyamo declared. “Foreign airlines have dominated African markets for decades, feeding on our traffic without fair competition. Air France, Delta, British Airways, and others arrive here full and leave full—with Nigerians on both ends. While we appreciate their partnership, it’s time to develop our own airlines to compete effectively.”
The proposed legislation aims to create a guaranteed market for Nigerian carriers, positioning them to compete globally while stemming capital flight caused by foreign airlines. Keyamo described the dominance of international operators as part of a “global conspiracy” to stifle African aviation markets, urging stakeholders to adopt policies that empower indigenous operators.
Keyamo announced the formation of a technical committee comprising legal experts, former Directors-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), representatives from aviation agencies, and members of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON). The committee will finalize the bill and submit it to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) within the next month, after which it will proceed as an executive bill to the National Assembly.
The Vice President of AON and Chairman of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, described the Fly Nigeria Act as transformative, noting its potential to conserve foreign exchange, create jobs, and grow local capacity. “This is a new dawn for Nigeria’s aviation industry,” Onyema said. “With this initiative, we can strengthen our domestic carriers and reclaim our share of the market.”
Professor Obiora Okonkwo, Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, commended Keyamo’s leadership, revealing that international lessors have already expressed interest in supporting Nigerian carriers due to the anticipated market growth. Legal expert Olisa Agbakoba, represented by Barrister Osita Okoro, praised the bill’s robust structure but called for strong enforcement mechanisms to ensure its success.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, highlighted the alignment of the proposed bill with the Federal Government’s economic development goals. “This legislation will enhance safety, efficiency, and competitiveness, creating jobs and positioning Nigeria’s aviation sector as a driver of growth,” he stated.
Keyamo further outlined the bill’s implications for pilgrimage operations, insisting that Nigerian airlines must be prioritized for Hajj and Umrah services. He also emphasized that once the bill is enacted, routes currently underserved by Nigerian operators will see increased applications, creating opportunities for both market expansion and aircraft leasing.
The Fly Nigeria Act represents a turning point for Nigeria’s aviation sector, promising long-term economic benefits, enhanced local airline competitiveness, and reduced reliance on foreign carriers. With widespread stakeholder support, the ministry remains committed to fast-tracking the legislative process, ensuring that the bill becomes law and unlocks new opportunities for Nigeria’s indigenous airlines.
Keyamo concluded, “This bill will not just create opportunities—it will redefine the future of Nigerian aviation. We are ready to move forward, and I assure you that under my tenure, the Fly Nigeria Act will become a reality.”
