Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has held discussions with major global aircraft and aviation equipment manufacturers on opportunities to upgrade Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and strengthen the country’s air transport sector.
Keyamo disclosed the engagements after attending the opening ceremony of the second El Alamein International Airshow at El Alamein International Airport in Egypt, where he met representatives of major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and other aviation industry stakeholders.
The minister said the meetings provided an opportunity to explore technical and strategic collaboration that could support the modernisation of aviation infrastructure across Nigeria.
“The occasion afforded us the opportunity to meet major OEMs from around the world and engage in discussions regarding upgrading our aviation infrastructure across the country,” Keyamo said.
The engagements come as Nigeria seeks to modernise airport facilities, improve aviation technology and strengthen safety and operational efficiency. The country received a 20-year Civil Aviation Master Plan from the International Civil Aviation Organisation in April 2026, outlining a framework for developing a more modern, competitive and resilient aviation sector between 2025 and 2045.
The plan places emphasis on infrastructure and technology development, including the modernisation of airport facilities and deployment of advanced aviation technologies, while also prioritising compliance with international safety standards.
The El Alamein airshow, which brought together aircraft manufacturers, aviation companies and other industry players, provided Nigeria with an opportunity to deepen relationships with global aerospace stakeholders as it pursues its infrastructure development objectives.
Beyond the discussions with OEMs, Keyamo also met representatives from Saudi Arabia to discuss early preparations for the 2027 Hajj airlift.
The talks focused on ensuring adequate planning and coordination for the transportation of Nigerian pilgrims to and from Saudi Arabia, with the minister stressing the importance of beginning preparations well ahead of the pilgrimage season.
Keyamo said early engagement would help improve coordination and efficiency in the aviation arrangements for Nigerian pilgrims.
The minister’s engagements in Egypt come as the Federal Government continues to seek international partnerships and technical expertise to support the development of Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and improve the competitiveness of the sector.
