FG pledges support for local airline operators

Vice President Kashim Shetima has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to support Nigerian airline operators to unlock opportunities in the aviation industry.

He maintained that the current administration has made it a focal point to support the growth and development of local airline operators and they are unapologetic about it.

The Vice President stated this at the 2024 Aviation Ministry Conference on the Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment and the Protocol on Matters Specific to Aircraft Equipment held yesterday in Abuja and organized by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, (NCAA)
Shetima, who was represented by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, noted that there has been a high mortality rate of airlines due to lack of government support.

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He maintained that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu government is taking a new direction with the recently issued Federal High Court Practice Directions and Advisory Circular on the Cape Town Convention which aligns with international best practices.

He stated that the Cape Town Convention enhanced Nigeria’s global aviation standing and opened doors to increased investment and growth in aviation financing.

He said that the implementation of the CTC alongside the Practice of Direction has further increased the confidence of lessors and financiers in Nigeria and then enabled airlines to get aircraft on dry leases.

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The Acting Director-General, Civil Aviation Capt. Chris Najomo, said the theme of this conference underscores the importance of the Cape Town Convention and its Aircraft Protocol as essential instruments for promoting growth, stability, and resilience in the aviation industry.

“As we convene here today, we are reminded of the immense opportunities this Convention offers in enhancing aviation financing, safeguarding creditor rights, and fostering a more predictable and sustainable legal environment for our industry,” he stated.

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He explained that “the Cape Town Convention aligns seamlessly with this agenda, offering a pathway to modernizing the aviation sector and ensuring its contribution to Nigeria’s prosperity.”

The Director, Legal Services/Company Secretary at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Barr. Mary Tufano-Eche said the practice direction has straightened the NCAA’s capability to do its work.

He noted that Nigeria has signed so many conventions that have not been implemented due to a lack of enabling local policies.