Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Boeing to facilitate aircraft acquisition by Nigerian airlines.
During the signing of the MoU with Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, Anbessie Yitbarek, Keyamo said the aircraft company would leverage its extensive network of financiers and lessors to help Nigerian airlines acquire newer-generation Boeing aircraft, modernising their fleets.
The signing ceremony took place on Thursday in Seattle, Washington, USA, in the presence of key Nigerian aviation stakeholders, including executives from major Nigerian airlines, the top management team of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and representatives from the Airline Operators of Nigeria.
A statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Minister on Media and Communications, Mr. Tunde Moshood, said the MoU would enhance the operational efficiency and safety of Nigerian airlines and position them for growth in the global aviation market.
He added that the aircraft company would also provide enhanced technical support to assist airlines in the introduction of new or used Boeing aircraft and ensure smooth integration into existing operations.
The highlights of the agreement, according to him, include provisions for comprehensive training of airline operations and business models aimed at improving the business practices and operational efficiency of Nigerian airlines, granting Nigerian airlines access to its vast repository of maintenance documents, engineering drawings, parts purchasing, and flight operations documents, streamlining maintenance practices, and reducing operational downtimes.
“Provide on-site Field Services Representation in Nigeria or nearby locations, offering immediate support to airlines as they navigate operational challenges,” he said, adding that a leadership-development training program will be implemented to strengthen the leadership pipeline within Nigerian airlines, ensuring sustained growth and excellence.
Moshood added that Boeing would also collaborate with Nigerian airlines on in-flight operations, maintenance, and engineering to enhance safety and operational efficiency across the board.
“In partnership with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Boeing will work closely with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and regional regulators to bolster safety oversight within the region.
“Boeing’s Airports Engineering team will provide consultation to open or expand airport capabilities across Nigeria and offer advisory services on the development of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities,” he stated.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister of Aviation stressed the importance of the MoU in supporting the growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“This partnership with Boeing represents a significant milestone in our efforts to modernize and enhance the capabilities of Nigerian airlines. The benefits of this MoU will be far-reaching, not only in improving the operational efficiency of our airlines but also in ensuring the safety and reliability of air travel in Nigeria,” he said.
On his part, Yitbarek expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are excited to work closely with Nigeria’s aviation stakeholders to deliver tailored solutions that will help Nigerian airlines thrive in the competitive global aviation landscape. This MoU underscores our commitment to supporting the growth and development of aviation in Africa.”
The strategic MoU is expected to catalyze significant improvements in Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and operational standards, further positioning the country as a key player in the global aviation industry.
