Nigeria's aviation minister, Festus Keyamo, mandates that foreign airlines partner with local caterers for onboard meals to receive approval for their summer schedules. This policy aims to boost the local economy. Keyamo also announced ongoing airport upgrades and safety measures to improve aviation infrastructure across Nigeria.
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has announced that foreign airlines will not be approved their summer flight schedules unless they collaborate with local caterers for onboard meal services. This directive, effective from January 1, 2025, is aimed at boosting Nigeria’s local economy by encouraging foreign airlines to support local businesses.
During a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos on February 28, Keyamo emphasized the importance of these partnerships, stating that without an agreement with Nigerian caterers, foreign airlines would not have their summer schedules approved. The minister’s concern comes from the lack of patronage for local catering services by airlines operating in Nigeria.
Keyamo also discussed ongoing improvements in the country’s aviation infrastructure. He highlighted the upgrade of Maiduguri airport, which is set to become the first international airport in the north-east of Nigeria. Additionally, he encouraged the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to expedite the process for issuing Air Operator Certificates (AOCs), potentially within 24 hours.
Olubunmi Kuku, managing director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), also addressed safety improvements, such as runway friction tests and de-rubberisation efforts. Kuku mentioned the success of wildlife management initiatives and the recertification of several airports, alongside ongoing electrification projects aimed at tackling power outages, particularly in Lagos.
