Speaking during the opening of the 7th African Aviation Summit and Exhibition held at the International Conference Centre, Abuja on Wednesday,13th September 2023, Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo said the Administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu is working hard to make Nigeria the Aviation hub in Africa by attracting foreign investors and other areas to further improve aviation business in the country.
Keyamo said, “Having this unique and important event for the seventh time demonstrates the organizer’s determination and interest to support the sustainable development of air transport in Africa.”
“Air Transport remains an essential component of the global transportation system and it’s a crucial driver of economic, social, and cultural development worldwide. Air transport generates economic growth and development, provides jobs, and fosters a range of socio-economic benefits.”
He said some of the area the Government is determining to improve aviation business in the country is through upgrading aviation infrastructure which includes; Cat III landing system at major airports, construction of the second runway in Abuja, airport, improvement programmes through Concession and government willingness to partner with companies to turn major airports into Aerotropolis.
Other area includes Aircraft Leasing Company, Aircraft Maintenance, Repairs and Overhauls (MRO), Foreign exchange availability and Tax holidays to encourage existing and new entrants into the Nigerian Aviation Sector noting that, Government is committed to sustain the support given to the aviation industry.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole in his remark, urged the participants to use the opportunity to network so that the industry in Africa can compete with other continents.
Director General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Capt. Musa Nuhu said “This 7th rendition of Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition is the first to take place in the West Africa. This is coming against the backdrop of the previous six editions of the event. It is expected to replicate and build upon the achievement of the previous editions for the sustainable development and growth of the air transport industry in Africa”.
Participants at the 2 day event includes, Civil Aviation business community across Africa, Airline companies and manufacturers, Media organizations e.t.c