AON Expresses Delight Over Keyamo’s Performance By Charles Panam

Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development has demonstrated uncommon political will and deep understanding of the Nigerian aviation industry’s challenges since he was appointed as a minister for the sector, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has said.

This was contained in a statement on Monday by Dr. Allen Onyema, the Vice President of AON.

According to AON, since his appointment, Keyamo has repositioned Nigeria’s aviation industry and Nigeria positively on the global scene.

The operators explained that Keyamo had displayed exceptional dedication to the growth and sustainability of local airlines in the country.

The operators said that in the next few weeks, Nigerian airlines would begin receiving the all-important dry-leased aircraft, a landmark development that would empower operators to grow their fleets with greater ease and affordability.

AON further lauded President Bola Tinubu for backing the minister’s efforts and for giving him the marching orders to improve the lot of indigenous airlines.

The statement added: “The association expressed optimism that the industry is on a trajectory of sustainable growth under the current administration.

“We commend the Federal Government for seeking ways to address the capacity challenges faced by local airlines, rather than demonising them for lack of capacity—an ugly trend that marred the past. This new direction reflects true leadership and patriotic pragmatism.”

The body has also reaffirmed tits commitment to collaborating with the ministry to achieve global competitiveness, safety and reliability in the Nigerian aviation sector.

“Love him or hate him, believe it or not, Festus Keyamo is absolutely God-sent to Nigeria’s aviation industry. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a genius when selecting the right persons for strategic positions of immense national importance. The appointment of Keyamo is one made right,” it added.

The minister had, at the inception of his tenure, unveiled a comprehensive 5-point agenda for repositioning Nigeria’s aviation industry, with the second point focused explicitly on “supporting the growth and sustenance of local airline businesses whilst holding them to the highest international standards.”