An energy and aviation expert, Dare Osamo, has described the Federal Government’s recent signing of the Cape Town Convention as a strategic policy move that would unlock growth across Nigeria’s aviation sector, improve aircraft leasing conditions for local airlines and restore investor confidence in the industry.

Osamo, who is Managing Director of Impact Energy, said the decision, executed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and signals a new phase of expansion for the sector.

According to him, the convention provides a globally recognised legal framework that protects the interests of aircraft lessors and financiers, particularly in asset recovery and enforcement of rights, while addressing a long-standing structural challenge that has constrained the growth of indigenous airlines.

Osamo said, “This is a clear demonstration of purposeful governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The Renewed Hope Agenda is about removing systemic bottlenecks and restoring investor confidence, and the signing of the Cape Town Convention fits squarely within that vision.”

He explained that access to aircraft through leasing has historically been one of the most difficult hurdles for Nigerian operators due to perceived legal and regulatory risks. With the convention now in place, Osamo said local airlines would be able to lease aircraft more easily, on better terms and at lower costs.

“The development makes aircraft leasing easier, more effective and more predictable for Nigerian operators. As a result, we will see organic growth in local fleets, improved service delivery and a more competitive aviation industry,” he said.

He added that the expected expansion of airline fleets would generate wider economic benefits, noting that increased aircraft numbers would drive demand for parts, maintenance services, aviation consumables and jet fuel, thereby creating opportunities across the aviation and energy value chains.

He highlighted: “As fleets grow, the supporting industries grow alongside them. From engineers and technicians to fuel suppliers and logistics providers, this will naturally create more jobs and deepen local capacity.”

He further noted that improved access to aircraft would enable airlines to open new domestic and regional routes, especially to underserved destinations, improving connectivity, stimulating commerce, and supporting national development.

Osamo also highlighted the role of the Minister of Aviation in advancing reforms aimed at revamping the sector, citing his engagement with international aviation stakeholders, emphasis on regulatory clarity, and commitment to restoring credibility to Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem.

“The minister has been deliberate in addressing legacy issues in the aviation sector. From improving Nigeria’s global aviation standing to engaging lessors, financiers, and international partners, this signing reflects a broader reform agenda already underway,” he said.

Describing the development as a foundational policy shift, Osamo said the convention, if properly implemented and supported with complementary reforms, could reposition Nigeria as a more attractive destination for aircraft leasing, aviation services, and regional air transport operations.

He urged sustained collaboration between government, regulators, and private sector stakeholders to ensure the full benefits of the convention are realised.

“The signing of the Cape Town Convention is not just a legal exercise; it is an economic enabler. It sends a strong message that Nigeria is open for business and serious about building a sustainable, growth-driven aviation industry under the Renewed Hope Agenda,”Osamo said.