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Lagos, Nigeria – April 11, 2025 (Naija247news): The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), has declared aviation as Nigeria’s prime gateway to global trade, asserting that the sector stands as a bridge for national socio-economic inclusion and a key driver of regional economic integration.
Keyamo made the remarks in a speech delivered by the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, during the glittering 14th edition of the Nigeria Aviation Awards and Ministerial Dinner (NIGAV) held Friday night in Lagos.
According to the minister, the aviation sector is not just expanding rapidly but has emerged as a critical engine for economic transformation, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This industry not only builds the bridge for national social and economic inclusion but also plays a significant role in regional trade integration and serves as the main gateway for global trade,” Keyamo emphasized.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the sector within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Keyamo stressed that Nigeria is expected to lead aviation connectivity across Africa.
“We understand the weight this sector carries. That’s why the Federal Government has begun massive investment in infrastructure to strengthen safety, boost investor confidence, and encourage robust public-private partnerships,” the minister added.
He disclosed that a new fact-based planning programme is being implemented to ensure sustainable growth and profitability, aimed at turning Nigeria into a central aviation hub for the continent.
Industry Cheers, Awards Celebrate Aviation Excellence
The night sparkled with applause and recognition as captains of the aviation industry, policymakers, and stakeholders gathered to honor exceptional contributions within the sector.
Convener of the event and aviation consultant, Mr. Fortune Idu, noted that since its inception, over 400 awardeeshave been recognized under the NIGAV platform for outstanding service, safety commitment, and innovation in air transport.
“These awards have played a crucial role in fostering industry harmony, encouraging competition, and elevating standards in air transport services,” Idu said.
The event, held at a packed venue in Lagos, saw high-flying industry players, regulators, airlines, service providers, and government officials bask in recognition and renewed commitment to excellence.
Industry Reactions Pour In
Reacting to the minister’s remarks, aviation analyst and frequent flyer, Mrs. Bukola Adebayo, lauded the government’s fresh focus on infrastructure.
“It’s time Nigeria takes its rightful place as the air transit powerhouse of West Africa. I hope the promises become action,” she said.
CEO of a leading domestic airline, who preferred anonymity, also praised the minister’s speech, but called for “less bureaucracy and quicker execution timelines” to allow investments to thrive.
A student pilot at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, told Naija247news:
“It’s encouraging to see aviation being prioritized. Young aviators like us are watching closely.”
As the night closed with standing ovations and glimmering trophies, the mood remained upbeat across the industry, with many hoping 2025 will become a record year for safety, connectivity, and profitability.
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