Aviation Minister’s vision for industry laudable – NAMA

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, has lauded the visionary roadmap outlined by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, for the advancement of the Nigerian aviation industry. Under his leadership, the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades and the invitation to private investors in France to participate in this transformative endeavor have been emphasized.

Minister Keyamo made this appeal while leading a high-powered Nigerian delegation on a four-day bilateral working visit to France. Dubbed the Nigeria France Bilateral Business Forum, the visit aims to strengthen cooperation and explore business opportunities in the aviation sector between both nations.

Accompanied by esteemed CEOs and directors from various Nigerian aviation agencies, including the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Farouk Ahmed, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, MD of FAAN, and Capt. Chris Najomo, Acting Director General of NCAA, the delegation embarked on a comprehensive aviation business exploration across key cities including Paris, Marseille, Toulouse, and Orly.

In a statement which was made available to CAPITAL POST in Abuja by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Abdullahi Musa, said, the bilateral business meeting commenced with Minister Keyamo meeting with the Director General of the French Civil Aviation, Damien Caze, and his team. Minister Keyamo presented a compelling roadmap for the Nigerian aviation industry, emphasizing the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades and inviting private investors to participate in this endeavor.

During the session, stakeholders from the Nigerian delegation, including MDs of NAMA and FAAN, as well as the acting DG of NCAA, delivered insightful presentations on topics ranging from aircraft financing and insurance to the modernization of navigational equipment and capacity-building initiatives.

French aviation stakeholders, including PROAVIA, ASTech Paris Region, and BPI France, expressed keen interest in partnering with Nigeria, acknowledging the country’s vast potential in the aviation industry. Vice President of AerCap, Gad Wavomba, also pledged to explore business opportunities with Nigeria, citing the country’s attractiveness for investment.

Following the meetings in Paris, the delegation will proceed to Marseille, visit the Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, and conclude business discussions in Orly with an audience with the management of Thales.

Minister Keyamo expressed optimism about the outcomes of the visit, stating, “We are confident that this bilateral engagement will pave the way for fruitful collaborations and investment opportunities in Nigeria’s aviation industry.”