Festus Keyamo, Nigeria's Aviation Minister, highlights concerns over private jets used for money laundering and drug trafficking. He announces a new task force to address these illegal activities, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and enhanced security measures in the aviation sector.
Nigeria's Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, has issued a stark warning about the growing misuse of private jets in the country for criminal activities. Speaking at the inauguration of a ministerial task force committee aimed at curbing illegal chartered operations, Keyamo revealed alarming insights into how private aircraft are being used for money laundering, drug trafficking, and other illicit crimes.
"Last week, the National Security Adviser alerted us to a spike in money laundering, drug trafficking, and other illegal activities facilitated through the use of private aircraft in the country," said Keyamo. He emphasized that the operations of these private aircraft have remained largely unchecked and unregulated, posing significant security and safety risks.
Keyamo highlighted that Private Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) operators have become increasingly emboldened, often working with Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holders who collect tolls and list illegal charters under their AOCs. This collaboration not only undermines legal operations but also results in substantial financial losses for the Federal Government.
The minister did not name specific individuals but pointed out that several wealthy Nigerian businessmen, politicians, bankers, and clerics own private jets, which might be used for these illegal activities. Keyamo stressed the urgent need for stricter regulations and oversight to prevent further misuse of private aviation and to safeguard national security.
In response to these concerns, the newly formed task force will work on developing and implementing strategies to monitor and regulate the operations of private aircraft more effectively. This move is expected to deter illegal activities and restore integrity to Nigeria's aviation sector.
