Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has warned that he may block the summer schedules of foreign airlines that fail to patronize Nigerian caterers for in-flight meals.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos on Friday, Keyamo stressed that foreign airlines must engage local businesses to boost job creation and economic growth in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“I will not approve summer schedules unless airlines show proof of agreements with Nigerian caterers,” he declared, adding that airlines unwilling to comply are free to stop flying into the country.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has been directed to enforce compliance, with some airlines already agreeing to the policy, while others seek more time. NCAA’s Director-General, Captain Chris Najomo, assured that strict monitoring and inspections would ensure full enforcement.
In addition, Keyamo announced that Maiduguri Airport is being upgraded to meet international standards, making it the first international airport in the North-East—a significant boost for regional connectivity.
