Nigeria has taken the lead in Africa’s private aviation sector. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo says the country now operates nearly 240 private jets, the highest number on the continent.
ABUJA, FCT — Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, says the country now officially has the largest private jet fleet in Africa, with nearly 240 aircraft currently in operation. The minister disclosed this while outlining the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation sector, according to his remarks.
Keyamo said the growing number of private aircraft reflects the country’s expanding aviation market and highlights the need to improve local aviation services. He explained that the government is working with aircraft manufacturer Bombardier to establish an aircraft maintenance centre in Nigeria. According to him, the project will provide maintenance services for private and business aircraft within the country.
The minister said the planned maintenance facility will help reduce the amount of foreign exchange spent on servicing aircraft abroad. He added that aircraft owners currently spend significant amounts maintaining their jets outside Nigeria because of limited local capacity. Keyamo said the proposed centre will also create employment opportunities for skilled professionals and support the development of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Nigeria has remained one of Africa’s biggest aviation markets, with increasing demand for commercial and private air travel. Industry stakeholders have repeatedly called for greater investment in maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities to reduce operating costs and improve efficiency. Many aircraft operators still rely on foreign facilities for scheduled maintenance and technical support.
The development means Nigeria could retain more aviation revenue within its economy if the maintenance centre becomes operational. Industry observers say local maintenance facilities can reduce downtime for aircraft operators, lower operating expenses and improve technical capacity. The Federal Government’s partnership with Bombardier could also strengthen Nigeria’s position as a regional aviation hub if the project moves forward as planned.
