A UK-based advocacy group, the Independent Aviation Monitoring Stakeholders (IAMS), has lauded President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for what it described as the remarkable revival of international trust in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
In a statement released from the United Kingdom on Monday, IAMS coordinator, Dr Grace Jackson, commended the Tinubu administration’s efforts to reposition Nigeria as a credible player in global aviation. She highlighted the role of Keyamo’s diplomatic and reform-driven leadership in securing renewed partnerships and advancing sectoral development.
“Today, Nigeria’s aviation sector stands on firmer ground internationally, thanks to the strategic reforms and bold engagements championed by President Tinubu and Festus Keyamo,” the statement read.
The group noted that recent measures—such as the suspension of the controversial Nigeria Air project and the successful resolution of trapped foreign airline funds—signalled a new era of transparency and strategic intent. The clearing of more than $800 million owed to international carriers, a long-standing source of tension, was singled out as a significant milestone.
“For years, Nigeria struggled with the issue of trapped funds, prompting airlines to cut capacity or threaten withdrawal. Today, that nightmare is over,” the statement said.
According to IAMS, Keyamo’s diplomatic outreach across Europe, North America, and the Middle East has played a critical role in re-establishing Nigeria’s aviation credibility. The minister reportedly held high-level meetings with airline executives, aircraft manufacturers, and regulators, showcasing Nigeria’s renewed commitment to safety, compliance, and mutually beneficial partnerships.
Under Keyamo’s stewardship, the country’s compliance score under the Cape Town Convention rose from 49.5% to 75.5%, making Nigeria more attractive to aircraft leasing firms and helping to reduce insurance premiums for local carriers.
The group also hailed a strategic partnership secured in 2024 between Nigeria and US aviation giant Boeing, which includes technical cooperation, training, and investments in aircraft maintenance infrastructure. This, IAMS noted, could lead to long-term cost savings and the development of local capacity in maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services.
“Such a leap in global aviation rankings did not happen by chance; it is the product of purposeful leadership,” the group stated.
IAMS further praised Keyamo’s hands-on engagement style during international visits, which they said had helped build trust and personal credibility with industry leaders.
The group concluded by urging continued support for the administration’s aviation reforms, expressing optimism about the future of the sector.
“For the first time in a long while, Nigeria’s aviation future looks truly promising,” the statement said. “We commend President Tinubu for appointing capable hands like Keyamo and for providing him with the political backing to deliver.”
The Independent Aviation Monitoring Stakeholders (IAMS) comprises aviation professionals, investors, and analysts committed to promoting sustainable growth in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
