The Federal Government has pledged to intensify its diplomatic and policy interventions to protect Nigerian carriers operating international routes particularly the highly competitive Lagos–London corridor amid growing aeropolitical pressures.
This commitment was restated on Tuesday, November 26, 2026, by the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, who was represented by the Director of Special Duties, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Obiageli Orah, at the SAPTCO Communication Ltd Inaugural Lecture held in Lagos.
Speaking on the lecture topic, “International Aeropolitics: The Survival of Nigeria Carriers on London Route,” the Minister noted that the sustainability of domestic airlines remains a top priority for the Tinubu administration, especially as Nigerian carriers contend with stiff competition from foreign operators.
Keyamo said the government has already taken bold steps to strengthen the position of indigenous airlines by leveraging bilateral air service agreements (BASAs) in their favour, negotiating improved frequencies, and opening opportunities for Nigerian carriers to scale up operations.
According to him, the Federal Government has intensified engagements with other nations to ensure that Nigerian airlines receive fair treatment under international aviation protocols.
“We have engaged countries around the world in order to maximize our bilateral Air Service Agreements in favour of our indigenous airlines,” he said.
“Let me reassure you all that we are resolved to continue to play international aeropolitics to ensure that our carriers sustain the gains already made as they expand their routes while delivering excellent service.”
The Minister added that the administration has gone beyond diplomatic lobbying by also engaging global aircraft manufacturers and leasing companies, including Boeing, to broaden access to modern aircraft and financing options for Nigerian operators.
He explained that these international engagements were part of a deliberate strategy to reconnect local airlines with global partners for new opportunities that support fleet expansion, operational stability, and enhanced competitiveness.
Keyamo emphasized that Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its aviation sector stems from a broader understanding that aviation remains a “necessary catalyst for economic growth,” with direct impact on trade, tourism, investment, and overall national development.
He assured stakeholders that the Federal Government will continue to create enabling policies and support mechanisms that allow domestic airlines to thrive both at home and on the global stage.
The inaugural SAPTCO Lecture brought together key players in the aviation, communication, and transport sectors to discuss current challenges and strategic opportunities for Nigerian carriers navigating international aeropolitical terrain.
