Global rating: Operators now have more confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector – Stakeholders

Stakeholders in the aviation industry have lauded Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on the recent improvement in Nigeria’s global rating, which they said has boosted airline operators’ confidence in the country’s air transport sector.

DAILY POST reports that Nigeria was recently removed from the global aviation watchlist after its aviation rating rose to 75.5 per cent.

Nigeria’s aviation rating had jumped from 49 per cent to 70.5 per cent after the Federal Government signed the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction in September 2024.

The new global rating allows Nigerian airlines to access dry lease aircraft, thereby enhancing their operational capabilities.

Reacting to the development and other issues in the aviation sector, the stakeholders, under the aegis of Good Governance Advocates of Nigeria, GGAN, commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the improvement in Nigeria’s global aviation compliance score.

Addressing journalists at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Executive Director of GGAN, Dr. Opialu Fabian, noted that operators now have more confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector, a development which he said has created an environment for business development.

GGAN further observed that the aviation sector has witnessed a spectacular turnaround, with notable milestones achieved in the past year under the leadership of the minister, Festus Keyamo.

The stakeholders observed that the minister’s focused leadership and intentional reforms have fostered improved trade, and economic expansion and development.

They added that the minister’s proactive interaction with aviation sector stakeholders has guaranteed inclusivity and conformity to international best practices.

They equally noted that the Tinubu administration’s commitment to safety in the aviation sector has strengthened Nigeria’s compliance with global standards.

GGAN pointed out that the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has significantly improved safety protocols in the sector, earning accolades from international bodies.

Fabian further said the execution of the Cape Town Convention demonstrates the Nigerian government’s dedication to bringing aircraft financing and leasing in the country in line with worldwide standards.

The achievement, according to him, align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on infrastructural development, economic diversification, and international partnerships.

GGAN further noted that the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, under Keyamo, is emphasizing human capital development by sponsoring training programs that improve the abilities of aviation personnel through international collaborations.

Fabian added, “For the record, the honourable minister has achieved more than just operations and infrastructure, though of particular relevance is his emphasis on the development of human capital.

“This strategy makes sure that the reforms in place are sustainable and gets the industry ready for new challenges that could be handled by competent individuals. In addition, Mr. Keyamo’s dedication to promoting diverse global partnerships has given Nigeria new prospects.

“His foresight in creating good policies and reforms have improved the industry’s reputation internationally and drawn in foreign direct investment by fortifying relationships with overseas aviation associations and financiers.

“Evidently, the Minister’s focus on transparency and accountability in the management of aviation resources has enhanced public trust. The tales of mismanagement and misappropriation of funds is now a closed chapter in our aviation sector.

“For sustainability within the sector and entrenching a mindset of equity among the citizens, Mr Keyamo obtained approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to withdraw the ticket payment exemption granted to highly placed Nigerians at the nation’s airports.

“However, while there are still small issues such as operating costs, inadequate infrastructure, and regulatory barriers, nonetheless, we have faith that these problems will be successfully resolved by the honourable minister’s comprehensive reform strategy.

“It is clear that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s innovative leadership was essential to the aviation sector’s achievements. These accomplishments have been made possible by the backing and policy guidance of the President Tinubu-led administration.”