The Federal Government says plans are underway to start the local manufacturing of aircraft components as part of efforts to position Nigeria as the aviation hub of West and Central Africa.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume at the Nigerian International Airshow on Tuesday, said the initiative is central to the administration’s drive to expand capacity, attract investment and boost global competitiveness in the aviation sector.
“This is a historic event that places Nigeria firmly on the global aviation map,” Tinubu said, adding that the sector has grown from “humble beginnings to global ambitions.”
He noted that passenger traffic, which stood at 15.89 million in 2023, is projected to hit 25.7 million by 2029, while annual revenue is expected to rise to $2.58 billion. He also disclosed that government is undertaking major infrastructure upgrades, including a ₦712 billion refurbishment of the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos and improvements across six major airports.
Tinubu said Nigeria now ranks first in Africa for compliance with international aviation standards after improving its Cape Town Convention score from 49.5 to 75.5 per cent, a development he said “allows airlines to access low-cost aircraft financing and boosts investor confidence.”
He further confirmed that Nigeria has sealed agreements with Boeing and Cranfield University for the establishment of advanced Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facilities, aimed at reducing the over $200 million spent annually on overseas aircraft maintenance. “Aero Contractors and XEJet are leading this transformation with new hubs in Lagos and Abuja,” he said.
The President also cited recent gains in international connectivity, including the return of Emirates and Uganda Airlines and the resumption of Air Peace’s Lagos–London route, noting that aviation now contributes 2.5 per cent to Nigeria’s GDP.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a foreword to the Airshow’s inaugural magazine, described the event as “a bold declaration that Nigeria is ready to lead, innovate and compete on the global stage.” He added, “This is our first attempt. It will not be perfect. We are taking baby steps, but we take them with courage, conviction and clarity of purpose.”
Keyamo highlighted progress in safety and security systems, airport modernisation, airspace digitalisation and enhanced training for aviation professionals. He also reaffirmed plans to deepen private-sector participation through concessions and partnerships in MRO facilities, cargo terminals and aviation city projects.
