The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has directed foreign airlines operating in Nigeria to patronize local caterers for on-board meals on outbound flights. The directive, issued via a letter from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), will take effect on January 1, 2025.
Keyamo emphasized that this move would boost Nigeria’s local economy, promote cultural heritage, and align with the principles of reciprocity outlined in the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA). The minister previously encouraged Qatar Airways to adopt this initiative in May during the Future Aviation Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
In a separate meeting with the Lufthansa Group, Keyamo reiterated the importance of airlines using local caterers and treating Nigerian passengers well. He also urged foreign airlines to ensure their aircraft operating in Nigeria are in optimal condition, criticizing the use of outdated planes on Nigerian routes.
Lufthansa’s Senior Director of Sales for Southern and East Africa, Nigeria, and Equatorial Guinea, Rene Koinzack, praised the transformation of Nigerian airports and pledged to support the nation’s aviation industry by incorporating local catering services on Lufthansa flights. He also commended Nigerian immigration for its excellent services at airports.
Keyamo further announced that the Muhammadu Buhari Airport in Maiduguri has been upgraded to an international airport, encouraging airlines to explore new opportunities when it becomes operational in January 2025.
