Mathew Amaechi
In a move aimed at transforming Nigeria’s aviation landscape, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has embarked on a strategic visit to Brazil’s flagship aircraft manufacturer, Embraer. The trip, marked by high-level engagements and forward-thinking discussions, unveils the government’s determination to make aircraft leasing more accessible to Nigerian airline operators and to establish a direct air link between Nigeria and South America.
Keyamo’s visit, which followed President Tinubu’s directive, came as a strong endorsement of Nigeria’s recent strides in bolstering its aviation sector. Last year’s signing of the Cape Town Convention—a treaty designed to enhance lessors’ confidence—has already paved the way for dynamic partnerships. Now, the government seeks to leverage these advancements by tapping into Embraer’s expansive network of lessors and financial institutions.
Accompanied by the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Capt. Chris Najomo, and representatives from prominent Nigerian airlines, the minister landed in Brazil late yesterday. The delegation’s presence at Embraer’s headquarters in São José dos Campos, located in São Paulo State, set the stage for intensive discussions. In a statement delivered by the minister’s media aide, Tunde Moshood, officials highlighted that these talks would explore innovative ways to enrich Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem through modern aircraft leasing options and a robust network of credible financiers.
“Extensive discussions with Embraer have focused on strengthening the aviation sector by providing Nigerian operators with the necessary tools and partnerships for growth and expansion,” Moshood stated. “Our engagement with Embraer is not just about accessing advanced aircraft—it’s about building a sustainable, modern aviation framework that will support our operators for years to come.”
In addition to the focus on aircraft leasing, another critical aspect of the visit was the agenda for a follow-up meeting with Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, Sílvio Costa Filho.
Central to this meeting is a review of the existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement between Nigeria and Brazil. The goal is to amend the current accord to facilitate the immediate commencement of direct flight operations between the two nations—a historic step that could carve a new route for passengers and cargo between Nigeria and South America.
By engaging with a global leader in regional aircraft production, the Nigerian government is poised to create a more competitive and interconnected aviation sector. This strategic partnership not only promises enhanced leasing options but also aims to open new horizons for Nigeria, connecting it more directly with major international markets. As airlines worldwide continue to navigate an evolving post-pandemic landscape, initiatives like these are essential for ensuring that Nigerian aviation operators remain competitive on the global stage.
The coming weeks will be crucial as further discussions unfold, with high expectations that this visit will lay the groundwork for a historic shift in Nigeria’s aviation policy—one that embraces modernization, international collaboration, and a vision of seamless global connectivity.