Keyamo highlights importance of MROs at LAAC conference
…Calls for synergy among local airlines
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has emphasized the critical need for Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in Nigeria, while advocating for greater cooperation among local airlines.
Speaking on Friday at the 28th annual conference of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) held in Lagos, Keyamo addressed key industry stakeholders in the event themed “Aviation Survivability Amidst a Challenging Macro-Economic Environment.”
Keyamo highlighted that establishing MROs in Nigeria is a pivotal component of his administration’s 5-point agenda, which could potentially expand to a 6-point agenda based on feedback. “We crave your indulgence and support for the 5-point agenda. And if you feel we haven’t covered all areas, please let us know, we’re going to expand it to a 6-point agenda,” he stated.
He outlined the visions as follows:
- Safety Standards: Enhance and ensure strict compliance with safety standards.
- Infrastructure: Improve both aeronautical and non-aeronautical infrastructure.
- Support for Local Airlines: Strengthen local airline operators to boost industry capacity.
- Capacity Building: Train and retrain industry professionals to meet global standards.
- Optimized Revenue: Improve airport revenue streams through taxes and fees for special services.
Keyamo emphasized the establishment of MRO facilities, aiming to serve West Africa, Central Africa, and parts of Southern Africa. “For us, we are looking at many issues, such as the MROs. The need to create the MRO. Very soon we’re going to advertise and call for local businessmen, financial institutions, financiers,” he announced, noting that currently, no such facilities exist in Central and West Africa.
Revealing that the government has established contacts with investors from the Arab world, China, and Europe, he stressed the importance of these investments, explaining that local MRO services would save foreign exchange by conducting maintenance in Naira. “We are encouraging the world to come and invest in Nigerian MROs,” he urged.
Pointing out the broader benefits of local MRO facilities, including enhancing the capacities of local airlines, Keyamo cited the current shortage of aircraft in Nigeria, where local operators struggle to cover domestic routes, let alone international ones.
Addressing other crucial industry issues, the Minister called for code sharing among local airlines to improve efficiency and reduce passenger wait times, urging the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to facilitate these arrangements.
Furthermore, he emphasized the need for business honesty, particularly concerning the detention of aircraft from other airlines. “We are in the process of drafting rules now so we can be in tune with global best practices,” he said, highlighting the potential for local airlines to compete with global giants like Qatar Airways and Ethiopian Airlines.
Keyamo also stressed the importance of proper insurance adherence by airlines and outlined his commitment to ensuring the aviation sector operates with integrity and efficiency.
The conference saw participation from various aviation stakeholders, including heads of aviation agencies, airline owners, and investors, all gathered to discuss the future of Nigeria’s aviation industry amidst economic challenges.
