ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Government is pushing for the creation of indigenous aircraft leasing firms to modernise Nigeria’s aviation sector and support fleet expansion.
The announcement came from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, at the 2025 FAAN National Aviation Conference in Abuja on Tuesday.
He highlighted the potential for private-sector leadership in aviation financing under transparent public-private partnerships.
Keyamo explained that establishing local leasing companies will deepen aviation financing, reduce dependence on foreign lessors, and accelerate the acquisition of modern aircraft for domestic airlines. “Nigeria is not only a large aviation market; it is a strategic hub for Africa. Our investment priorities are structured for private-sector leadership,” he said.
He also highlighted complementary opportunities, including airport infrastructure upgrades under the Renewed Hope agenda, development of a regional Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) hub to save foreign exchange, and specialised cargo and logistics hubs to support exports.
“This is a direct opportunity to strengthen fleet modernisation and boost the sector’s growth trajectory,” Keyamo added, urging stakeholders to leverage the reforms to drive private investment and enhance Nigeria’s global aviation standing.
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