FG to improve local carriers’ capacity, competitiveness

The Federal Government on Friday in Abuja pledged to improve the capacity and competitiveness of the nation’s national carriers.

Mr Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, said this at the “Stakeholders Engagement on the Legal Framework for the Fly Nigeria Bill and Related Enabling Legislation.“

According to him, Fly Nigeria Bill 2024 is meant to enhance capacity and competitiveness of Nigeria`s national carriers to promote national pride and improve service delivery in the aviation sector.

He added that effort would be made to secure legislative backing by ensuring prompt action by the National Assembly to pass the bill.

He said there would be continuous investment in aviation infrastructure to support the growth and sustainability of the sector.

Keyamo stated that effort would be made towards capacity building and training for aviation personnel to meet international standards and enhance service delivery.

“Fly Nigeria Bill is an Act to make it mandatory for government financed air transportation of government personnel, contractors, grantees and properties to be carried by Nigeria Air Flag Carriers.

“I urge all the stakeholders to work towards the successful implementation of the Fly Nigeria Act and related legislation,” the minister said.

Stakeholders, including the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), urged the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to priotise training programmes and professional development initiative.

They recommended targeted funding and strategic partnerships with private sector for the ministry to achieve it set goals.

The stakeholders, who suggested monitoring and evaluation framework to track the progress and impact of the Fly Nigeria Act, proposed the establishment of a dedicated unit within the ministry to oversee its function.

According to them, there is need for a comprehensive public awareness campaign to educate the public about the benefits of the Fly Nigeria Act to encourage patronage of national carriers.