Keyamo said this in an interview at the 2026 Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank Group in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo.

He said Nigeria had signed a Letter of Intent with the Bank under its Integrated Aviation Transformation Programme aimed at modernising African airlines and strengthening regional connectivity.

According to him, the programme seeks to provide affordable long-term financing for African carriers to renew fleets and improve competitiveness.

“This is one of the most ambitious aviation programmes in Africa.

“It seeks to modernise fleets, invest in aviation infrastructure and provide financing platforms for African airlines,” he said.

Keyamo said Nigeria was among the first countries to key into the initiative because of its strategic position as Africa’s largest aviation market.

He said that the Federal Government recently secured approval to establish a Nigerian Aircraft Leasing Company to mobilise capital for local airlines.

The minister said the Special Purpose Vehicle would help domestic carriers modernise fleets and compete at regional and international levels.

“Africa must have a single sky. Even the African Continental Free Trade Area cannot fully succeed without stronger air connectivity across the continent,” he said.

Keyamo also said Nigeria had committed 500 million dollars toward the modernisation of the Lagos airport without external borrowing.

According to him, the Lagos airport accounts for about 67 per cent of passenger traffic into Nigeria annually.

He said modernising airports across Africa would attract global investments and position the continent as a major global aviation hub.

Also speaking, Mr Mike Salawou,the Director of Infrastructure and Urban Development at the AfDB, said African airlines faced high financing costs and regulatory barriers.

Salawou said the Bank’s aviation programme was designed to support reforms, improve access to affordable capital and strengthen technical capacity within the sector.

“We are already in implementation stage.

“Nigeria is leading on reforms and helping to drive aviation transformation in West and Central Africa,” he said.

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The assurance is contained in a statement signed by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Henry Agbebire, on Wednesday in Lagos.

Agbebire stated that enhanced health surveillance measures were being implemented in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and Port Health Services to ensure early detection and response to any potential health threat.

He said passenger monitoring and surveillance activities have been intensified, particularly for travellers arriving from areas considered high-risk.

He noted that passengers are being screened for symptoms associated with Ebola and suspected cases would be promptly isolated and subjected to further medical assessment in accordance with national and international health protocols.

He added that FAAN had strengthened coordination among relevant stakeholders, increased staff sensitisation efforts and reinforced emergency response mechanisms to ensure rapid action, if required.

While stressing that “Nigeria has not recorded any confirmed Ebola case”, he said “FAAN remains vigilant in its efforts to protect public health and maintain safe airport operations across the country.

“The authority wants to advise passengers to remain calm, cooperate with screening procedures and report any symptoms to health officials promptly.”

The authority added that its operations had continued to align with its mandate of ensuring safe and secure airport services across the country.

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The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Kayamo, disclosed on Friday in Abuja.

In a statement signed by Mr Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister, he said the presidential directive was formally conveyed through the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila.

Keyamo said the decisive move aimed at alleviating operational pressures within Nigeria’s aviation sector.

‘’The relief covers accumulated debts including parking charges payable to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), navigational charges owed to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), as well as other regulatory obligations.

‘’This intervention comes as part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to cushion the impact of the ongoing Jet A1 fuel crisis, which has significantly increased operating costs for domestic carriers.

“The initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to stabilising the aviation industry, safeguarding airline operations, and ensuring the continued viability of domestic air transport services across the country, ‘’ he said.

In a related development, Keyamo said Nigeria aviation sector has earned a 91.45 per cent safety rating from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

He said the record-breaking score followed the recent audit conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

The minister said the exercise took place at the headquarters of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in Abuja.

According to him, the landmark score, announced during a debriefing session by the ICAO audit team, represents the highest rating ever attained by Nigeria since it began participating in ICAO’s safety oversight audits.

‘’This achievement places Nigeria well above both the West African regional average of 61.1 per cent and the global average of 70.4 per cent, reinforcing the country’s standing as a leader in aviation safety compliance.

‘’The improved rating is expected to significantly enhance investor confidence, strengthen Nigeria’s international aviation credibility, and position the country as a preferred destination for global aviation partnerships and investments.

‘’The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), a specialised agency of the United Nations, is responsible for coordinating global standards in air navigation and ensuring the safe and orderly development of international air transport,’’ he said.

According to him, ICAO evaluates member states’ ability to effectively implement safety oversight systems through its Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP).

The minister stated that Nigeria, as a committed member state, had consistently worked to align with the international standards.

‘’Since the inception of the USOAP in 1999, Nigeria has undergone four comprehensive safety audits, with performance measured through Effective Implementation (EI) scores that reflect the robustness of its aviation safety framework,’’ he added.

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Keyamo said this in Abuja during a meeting with the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), airline operators and other aviation stakeholders.

Our correspondent reports that the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) had earlier planned to suspend flight operations and increase airfares due to the high cost of Jet A1 fuel.

According to the minister, the percentage of the discount for domestic airlines will be determined by President Bola Tinubu.

He said the president had directed airlines to urgently submit formal requests regarding the proposed debt relief.

Keyamo added that the president had also approved the establishment of a committee to review multiple taxes, levies and charges imposed on domestic flight tickets.

He said the committee was aimed at reducing the cost burden on both operators and passengers.

The minister said the federal government intervened swiftly to prevent disruption to air travel following the operators’ warning.

“A generous discount on debts owed to agencies such as the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) is under consideration,” he said.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Mr Heineken Lokpobiri, said a meeting would be held with oil marketers on Thursday to address pricing concerns.

Lokpobiri was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs Patience Oyekunle.

Speaking on behalf of AON, the Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Mr Allen Onyema, requested a total waiver of debts owed by airlines.

Onyema also urged the federal government to strengthen the Bank of Industry (BOI) to enable airlines access loans at lower interest rates.

He described the reported 300 per cent increase in aviation fuel price as abnormal and called for caution by oil marketers.

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Chibuikem Uloka, the Public Relations Officer of United Nigeria, who disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, said that it was the sixth bird strike involving the company carriers in 2026.

Uloka said the incident occurred on landing at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, from Port Harcourt International Airport operating Flight UN0515 on April 15.

He said the nose section of the aircraft was affected.

“We regret to inform our valued passengers and the general public of yet another bird strike aircraft involving one of our Airbus A320-200,” he said.

The company said it had immediately withdrawn the aircraft from operations to undergo thorough technical inspections and any required maintenance before returning to service.

It said this was in line with its strict and uncompromising safety standards.

”This marks the sixth bird strike involving our aircraft so far in 2026, an occurrence we find deeply concerning and unacceptable due to its implications for aviation safety and operational stability.

“This brings the total number of grounded aircraft to two in less than 24 hours.

“As a result, some flights across our network may experience disruptions or may not operate as scheduled,” it said.

United Nigeria regretted any inconvenience the decision may cause urging passengers understanding as safety remained top priority.

The company said it was working diligently to minimise disruptions and provision of support to all affected travelers.

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The body said in a notice signed by its President, Dr Abdulmunaf Yunusa Sarina, on Wednesday in Lagos.

Sarina said the price of Jet A1 had increased to N3,300 per litre from about N900 per litre in February, representing a 300 per cent rise.

According to him, the increase, driven by marketers, has significantly raised airlines’ operational costs.

He noted that the rise was not in line with global crude oil price trends, which reflect about a 30 per cent increase.

Sarina said airlines had, in the past four weeks, continued operations despite the rising costs out of a sense of responsibility to the nation.

He, however, said the situation had become unsustainable.

“Currently, airline revenues are insufficient to cover the cost of fuel alone, which is only one of many operational expenses incurred daily.

“The actions of fuel marketers are putting the aviation industry and the nation’s economy, safety and security at risk, as airlines are being forced to consider suspending operations.

“For the avoidance of doubt, this increase has already affected one airline, forcing it to suspend operations since March 13,” he said.

Sarina said the situation could worsen if urgent action was not taken.

According to him, adjusting ticket prices to reflect current fuel costs could lead to reduced passenger traffic, while a shutdown of operations would affect jobs, financial institutions and national security.

“We urge marketers to adjust jet fuel prices in line with international market realities, as airlines can no longer sustain purchases at the current rates,” he said.

The notice was addressed to the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria, with copies sent to President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, among others.

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The operator said the hike addresses congestion, discourages long-term parking, and restores space for legitimate airport users.

This is contained in a statement by Head of Corporate Communications, Mrs Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, on Monday in Lagos.

Yinka-Olawuyi said MMA2 has maintained strong safety and security records among Nigeria’s airport terminals.

She said this is achieved through monitoring, access control, and proactive management of terminal facilities, including the car park.

She said increasing long-stay vehicles have placed additional operational and security pressures on the facility.

“Prolonged parking has created operational challenges and reduced space for legitimate users at the multi-storey car park.

“Over time, the facility has been used for long stays, sometimes days, months or years, reducing availability for passengers,” Yinka-Olawuyi said.

She noted passengers sometimes spend over 30 minutes searching for parking, causing missed flights and delays.

She said congestion also builds around terminal drop-off and pick-up zones, affecting traffic flow and experience.

According to her, the revised tariff aims to discourage long-stay parking and improve turnover for legitimate users.

She said: “The review is not revenue-driven but an operational necessity to restore order, reduce congestion, and ensure safety and efficiency.”

Saloon cars now pay N3,500 first hour, up from N2,500, with N2,500 for subsequent hours.

SUVs now pay N4,000 first hour, up from N3,500, with N2,500 subsequent hours; buses N20,000; overnight N50,000; lost tickets N25,000.

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The FAAN Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Henry Agbebire, said in a statement in Lagos that the terminal was shut following the spark in an operational office, which resulted in smoke emission at 2.05 p.m.

Agbebire said that electrical maintenance was ongoing to ensure that all electrical systems would function optimally ahead of the terminal’s reopening.

“All flights that currently operate from Terminal 3 have been diverted to Terminal 2. Passengers are hereby advised accordingly.

“The situation is under control as personnel of the Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Services promptly responded and contained the incident,” he added.

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Managing Director and Chief Executive, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, at a Business Breakfast Meeting hosted by the Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative, on Thursday in Lagos

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By Itohan Abara-Laserian

Lagos, March 26, 2026 (NAN) The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, has outlined efforts to bridge long-standing infrastructure deficits at Lagos airports.

Kuku spoke at a Business Breakfast Meeting hosted by the Aviation Safety Roundtable Initiative on Thursday in Lagos.

The meeting was with the theme, ‘Boosting Aviation Sector Contribution to Nigeria’s GDP: The Importance of an Aviation Hub’.

She highlighted strategic choices facing Nigeria’s gateways, ongoing rehabilitation challenges, and the shift toward private sector participation due to limited government resources.

“There is absolutely no way government can fully fund the infrastructure deficit we have today. It’s impossible,” she said.

According to her, Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment in its aviation journey, citing its large population, strategic location, and rising demand for air travel.

She said the country was well positioned to lead aviation development across Africa through a coordinated hub strategy.

Kuku outlined plans to develop dual hub airports at Murtala Muhammed International Airport and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

“Lagos serves as our primary commercial gateway, handling most international passenger and cargo traffic.

“Abuja complements this as a political and administrative hub with growing international connectivity capacity.

“Together, these airports form the backbone of Nigeria’s hub strategy,” she said.

She said infrastructure modernisation remained a priority, including terminal upgrades, improved runway capacity, and advanced air traffic systems under the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Project.

“These investments are critical to ensuring safety, reducing delays, and delivering efficiency expected of a global hub,” she said.

Kuku listed improvements at Lagos airport, including expanded capacity and a temporary departure hall handling up to 1,500 passengers during peak periods.

She noted plans for a monorail linking terminals, upgraded airfield lighting to Category II LED standard, and improved taxiways.

Other measures include deployment of advanced surface movement systems, access control upgrades, and expanded aircraft parking through relocation of obstructing hangars.

She added that multiple air bridges, upgraded cargo terminals, and integrated logistics systems were being installed to improve operations.

“Safety and regulatory compliance remain non-negotiable,” she said, noting alignment with global standards under the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority.

She stressed that strong safety oversight builds confidence among international airlines and passengers.

Kuku said connectivity remained central, with plans to expand long-haul and intra-African routes using frameworks like the Single African Air Transport Market.

She said Nigeria aimed to become a key transit point for passengers travelling across Africa and beyond.

Kuku added that strong national carriers were vital, with support planned for two Nigerian airlines to drive passenger and cargo traffic.

“By strengthening partnerships and optimising routes, these carriers will play a central role in our hub ecosystem,” she said.

She said FAAN was expanding into cargo and logistics through modern terminals and cold-chain systems.

According to her, Nigeria is positioning itself as a hub for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul services to capture more aviation value.

She said passenger experience was being enhanced through improved check-in, immigration, transit facilities, and commercial offerings.

She said: “Policy reform and investment are critical enablers.

“Through public-private partnerships and improved regulations, we are attracting local and international investment into the sector.

“Nigeria’s ambition to become an aviation hub is achievable with sustained investment and collaboration.”

Chairman of Aero Contractors, Capt. Ado Sanusi, said strong domestic airlines and efficient infrastructure were essential for a successful hub.

He urged government to create an enabling environment, noting multiple taxation and foreign exchange constraints hinder airline growth.

Sanusi also called for efficient air traffic management, performance-based navigation, and local maintenance and training facilities.

Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, Mr George Uriesi, said a hub required over 30 per cent transit passengers.

He noted Nigerian airports currently handle mostly point-to-point traffic rather than hub operations.

Uriesi said infrastructure, airline connectivity, and service quality were key to developing a functional hub system.

Managing Director of Elint System Ltd., Ms Charlotte Essiet, highlighted the role of drones in future aviation.

She said unmanned traffic management systems and advanced air mobility infrastructure should be integrated into airport design.

Stakeholders across the aviation ecosystem attended the meeting.

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Kuku inspected the tollgates at the Lagos and Abuja airports respectively.

Our correspondent reports that Kuku had earlier in the day inspected Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, where the system had already been launched.

Speaking after the inspection, Kuku said the visit was in line with the directive of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN), to implement a hybrid payment approach across airport tollgates.

According to her, the system allows travellers to pay using the automated “gold card” cashless method while still retaining the option of cash and other payment channels to ease the transition.

She noted that the Abuja tollgate recorded a free flow of traffic during the morning rollout, supported by ongoing public awareness campaigns aimed at educating users about the automated payment system.

At the Lagos airport tollgate, she said traffic also moved smoothly, although more sensitisation was still required because of the airport’s large number of first-time or occasional users.

Kuku explained that many travellers were still learning how to navigate the available payment options and adopt faster and more seamless automated methods.

The FAAN managing director added that more work remained to fully integrate the system, particularly with existing concessionaires managing the toll infrastructure.

She said lessons from the ongoing rollout would guide the full integration and streamlining of the payment process in collaboration with the Ministry of Aviation.

The hybrid payment system is part of FAAN’s ongoing efforts to modernise airport access gates, improve traffic flow, and introduce more efficient digital payment options for airport users

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