8 Key Reforms in the Aviation and Aerospace Sector Under Festus Keyamo

In a democracy, citizens often demand quick results from their leaders. The aviation sector is no exception, with expectations for affordable airfare, efficient services, and infrastructure upgrades. However, achieving such outcomes requires deliberate groundwork, policies, investments, and time. Under the leadership of Festus Keyamo, the aviation and aerospace sector has witnessed significant reforms aimed at addressing long-standing challenges.

Key Reforms in the Aviation Sector

1. Improved Compliance with the Cape Town Convention (CTC)
   Keyamo spearheaded efforts to enhance Nigeria’s adherence to the CTC, which facilitates aircraft leasing and financing. By increasing Nigeria’s compliance score from 49% to 70.5%, the reforms restored investor confidence, reduced costs for airlines, and set the stage for competitive airfares. Updates to the Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorization (IDERA) regulations have further streamlined processes for leasing aircraft.
2. Passenger Rights and Consumer Protection
   To enhance customer experience, a consumer protection portal was launched via the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). This platform addresses passenger complaints related to delayed flights, baggage issues, and other inconveniences, ensuring airlines are held accountable.
3. Strengthening Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASA)
   The Minister expanded Nigeria’s BASAs, granting local airlines access to more international routes while fostering collaborations with foreign airlines. Successes include securing new routes for Nigerian carriers, such as Air Peace’s route to London, and managing key aviation partnerships with nations like the UAE.
4. Positioning Nigeria as an African Aviation Hub
   Keyamo has focused on establishing Nigeria as a major aviation hub in Africa, competing with countries like Ethiopia and South Africa. Through improved infrastructure, safety standards, and diplomatic engagements with international aviation bodies, Nigeria is gaining global recognition. Plans for a world-class aerotropolis aim to enhance airport-linked commerce and logistics.
5. Infrastructure Development and Airport Concessions
   Recognizing the importance of modern infrastructure, Keyamo relocated foreign airlines to the new terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport and initiated construction of a second runway at Abuja Airport. The government also plans to concession airports to private operators to enhance service delivery and efficiency.
6. Reducing Operational Costs
   Keyamo implemented cost-saving measures such as relocating the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) headquarters from Abuja to Lagos, saving over N500 million annually. Additionally, transitioning airports to solar energy will significantly cut the N1 billion monthly diesel expenses.
7. Addressing Nigerian Air and Domestic Airline Challenges
   The controversial Nigerian Air project is being reassessed with a pragmatic approach. Keyamo prioritizes creating a supportive environment for domestic airlines to thrive through legal frameworks and international treaties rather than relying solely on a national carrier.
8. Improving Security and Regulatory Oversight
   Keyamo has taken steps to curb illegal charter operations by establishing a task force and collaborating with the National Security Adviser. These efforts aim to create a secure and regulated aviation industry.

Additional Efforts

• Encouraging domestic refineries to provide aviation fuel at competitive rates, reducing airline expenses.
• Supporting the development of local Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) infrastructure to cut overhead costs for airlines.
• Enhancing cargo airport operations to boost trade and generate revenue.

Looking Ahead

Festus Keyamo’s reforms are laying a solid foundation for Nigeria’s aviation sector. By improving compliance, infrastructure, and cost-efficiency, these efforts promise long-term benefits, including competitive airfares, enhanced passenger experiences, and economic growth. While the results may take time to fully materialize, the sector is already witnessing positive changes that could transform it into a model for the continent.

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