Tuesday May 27, 2025|
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has declared that the Federal Government is not going to invest any funds in establishing a national carrier for the country.
Keyamo made known through his verified X handle. He said the government would rather focus on creating a policy-driven environment that empowers local airlines to thrive, rather than pursuing a government-funded national airline.
This statement follows his earlier comments, where he confirmed a strategic shift in aviation policy to strengthen domestic airlines amid widespread calls for a national carrier. According to Keyamo, the current administration is prioritising reforms aimed at supporting local operators.
“Recent policy reforms, including revised insurance regulations for leased aircraft, have simplified aircraft acquisition processes and are expected to help reduce airfares across the country. Our focus has shifted. We are now committed to promoting the growth of local operators through targeted policies,” the minister added.
Keyamo further clarified that while the Federal Government will not invest in a national carrier, it remains open to proposals from private or public investors, both Nigerian and foreign, interested in establishing one.
He wrote, “The accurate position is that the FG will not invest a dime in setting up a national carrier. However, we are always open to proposals from private or public entities, whether local or foreign, that truly benefit Nigeria and Nigerians in establishing such a carrier. Until that becomes a reality, our attention is on formulating policies that ensure the growth and sustainability of local operators.”
The national carrier initiative, which began under the previous administration, has faced widespread criticism and allegations of fraud. Although Keyamo, backed by a decisive court ruling, closed the chapter on the controversial national carrier project in 2024, the conversation around its necessity continues.
Aviation experts argue that Nigeria still needs a national carrier, particularly to secure reciprocal rights for international routes.
The Managing Director of Belujane Consult and former spokesperson of the defunct Nigeria Airways, Chris Aligbe, expressed strong support for a national carrier. In an interview with The PUNCH, Aligbe argued that while the concept is essential, the execution requires pragmatism and renegotiation.
He said, “We need to swallow our pride because, honestly, it’s misplaced pride. In the aviation sector, especially in the airline subsector, pride holds no value. It’s time to be practical and revisit negotiations with Ethiopian Airlines.
“The existing agreement isn’t perfect, but it’s a workable foundation. We can review terms such as their 49 per cent equity stake, perhaps reduce it to 40 per cent or 45 per cent. We also need to reconsider the management structure to ensure long-term success. We don’t have to accept everything as it is; we have a chance to reshape the deal in our national interest.”
Similarly, retired Nigeria Airways pilot Capt. Muhammed Badamasi voiced support for Keyamo’s approach so long as the goal is to empower local flag carriers, not establish a government-funded airline.
He noted that most developed countries no longer operate national carriers, citing British Airways as an example of a successful flag carrier not owned by its government.
“If the minister is advocating for a flag carrier, I agree with him because that’s the right path. But if we’re talking about a true national carrier, how can it be realized without government investment?” he asked.
“Even advanced countries have moved on from national carriers. What we see now are flag carriers. Take British Airways, for example, it’s not owned by the British government.”
