Nigeria has commenced fresh engagements with major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and other global aviation stakeholders as part of efforts to upgrade and modernise aviation infrastructure across the country.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed this yesterday after holding high-level meetings with leading players in the global aviation industry at the second edition of the El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt.

A statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the minister, Tunde Moshood, said that the engagements provided Nigeria with an opportunity to explore practical areas of collaboration with major OEMs towards improving the country’s aviation infrastructure and strengthening the sector.

The El Alamein airshow, which attracted major players in the international aviation industry, the statement hinted was presided over by the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, alongside the President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides.

According to the minister, Nigeria’s participation in the event was huge in deepening strategic relationships with global aviation companies and identifying opportunities to accelerate the development of the country’s aviation industry.

He said: “The occasion afforded us the opportunity to meet major OEMs from around the world and engage in discussions regarding upgrading our aviation infrastructure across the country.

“These engagements are important as we continue to position Nigeria’s aviation industry for greater efficiency, safety, competitiveness and sustainable growth.”

He added that the engagements were critical to the Federal government’s efforts to position Nigeria’s aviation industry for improved efficiency, safety, competitiveness and sustainable growth.

Beises, the minister also met with a delegation from Saudi Arabia to commence discussions on preparations for the 2027 Hajj operations.

The statement said that discussions focused on the need for early planning and improved coordination of air transportation and other aviation-related arrangements for Nigerian pilgrims.

Keyamo said this was important to ensure that the aviation component of the 2027 hajj was properly coordinated and provides a smoother travel experience for Nigerian pilgrims.