Speaking in Lagos at the launch of “100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria: History, Issues and Prospects”, a book authored by aviation journalist Wole Shadare, Keyamo explained that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has redirected its strategy toward strengthening local airlines through policy reforms and infrastructure renewal.

As part of this renewed focus, the minister announced plans to tear down the aging terminal at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, making way for a new and modern facility. He described the current terminal as obsolete and stressed the need for Nigeria’s busiest airport to reflect international standards.

Keyamo emphasized that the government’s recent reforms, including changes to the insurance requirements on leased aircraft, are aimed at improving access to aviation assets and making domestic flights more affordable. He added that aviation professionals, including air traffic controllers, have undergone fresh rounds of training to improve safety and operational efficiency.

“In line with our policy shift, we’re creating an environment that enables domestic operators to thrive. We’ve addressed revenue leakages, introduced more favorable leasing conditions, and are enforcing policies to ensure international airlines patronize local in-flight caterers,” he said.

Also addressing the event, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, highlighted the sector’s growth, revealing that Nigeria currently boasts 39 certified airline operators, 31 operational airports, and over 2,100 licensed pilots. She said that these figures reflect an industry that has made significant progress despite lingering challenges.

Kuku noted that aviation contributes roughly $1.7 billion to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with private carriers playing a pivotal role in connecting cities and supporting trade. She acknowledged ongoing difficulties such as infrastructure gaps and regulatory complexities but maintained that the sector holds enormous potential for further expansion.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s post-independence aviation history, she explained that while the defunct Nigeria Airways was once a symbol of national pride, its eventual decline opened the door for private airlines to reshape the industry. Companies like Air Peace and Arik Air have since led a market-driven transformation of the sector.

“The rise of private aviation in Nigeria illustrates the value of liberalized markets,” Kuku said. “We’ve seen domestic airlines fill the void with competitive services, while international carriers are recognizing Nigeria as a key hub in Africa.”

According to recent data, over 16 million passengers used domestic airports across the country in the past year, with international passenger traffic surpassing 3.5 million.

Author of the newly released book, Wole Shadare, described his 25-chapter publication as a detailed chronicle of the nation’s aviation journey—highlighting its milestones, missteps, and future possibilities.

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in a letter dated March 28 and signed by a senior investigator, directed NiMet to provide detailed records of its contracts, vendors, procurement processes, and financial accounts spanning the last two years.

The communication, quietly circulated, nonetheless triggered a sharp reaction within the agency, culminating in a two-day work stoppage by staff.

The EFCC’s request, seen as part of a wider review of public spending in government agencies, immediately drew the attention of aviation sector stakeholders. Union members under the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) accused the management of side-stepping due process in contract handling and failing to maintain transparency around internally generated revenue.

“This wasn’t a decision we made lightly,” said a union representative who asked not to be named. “Essential weather services were disrupted, but our members felt they had no alternative after months of silence from leadership.”

As services ground to a halt affecting both aviation safety and agricultural forecasting, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, swiftly convened an emergency meeting.

Both NiMet executives and labour leaders were summoned, with Keyamo urging calm and assuring all parties that due process would be followed.

While the EFCC’s letter outlines its statutory right to request information as part of its investigative duties, it does not suggest criminal charges or issue any direct accusations. Nonetheless, the timing of the request barely four months into the tenure of NiMet Director-General, Professor Charles Anosike has stirred speculation and public interest.

NiMet’s spokesperson, Muntari Yusuf Ibrahim, issued a clarification stating that the agency views the EFCC’s document demand as a “routine procedure,” emphasizing that it spans contracts awarded even before the current leadership assumed office in December 2023.

“No one in our team has been invited for questioning. We are cooperating fully and transparently,” Ibrahim said.

He criticized what he described as “sensational coverage” that painted the inquiry as a scandal tied directly to the present administration. “This is part of institutional oversight. We welcome it.”

The situation at NiMet serves as a reminder of rising demands for accountability in public institutions, especially those playing strategic roles in national infrastructure, security, and agriculture.

While investigations remain ongoing, observers say the outcome may set new standards for transparency and internal governance in federal agencies.

The post NiMet: EFCC Launches Probe into Contracts and Revenue, Workers Stage Strike appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Keyamo revealed this information during an interview on Arise Television, highlighting the crucial role played by President Bola Tinubu in resolving tensions between the two nations.

Keyamo emphasized that the Nigerian government and the United Arab Emirates have successfully addressed outstanding issues, paving the way for the airline to announce its flight schedule soon.

He shared that Emirates had officially communicated its readiness to resume flights in Nigeria through a formal letter.

“The resumption of Emirates flights is imminent. I’ve just received confirmation from Emirates Airlines. They’ve completed all necessary preparations and are eager to return.

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The announcement of the exact date will be made by the airline,” Keyamo stated.

Emirates suspended its operations in Nigeria back in October 2022 due to challenges in repatriating funds from the country. However, with the recent developments and diplomatic efforts, the airline is gearing up to resume its services, bringing relief to travelers and strengthening air connectivity between Nigeria and the UAE.

The post Aviation Minister Confirms Emirates Flights Returning to Nigeria Soon appeared first on Housing TV Africa.