The Federal Government has reiterated the need to establish indigenous aircraft leasing companies as part of efforts to strengthen aviation financing and support the modernisation of Nigeria’s airline fleets.
The call was made by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who was represented at the 2025 FAAN National Aviation Conference (FNAC) held on Monday. Keyamo explained that the creation of local leasing firms would provide airlines with easier access to financing, thereby accelerating fleet expansion and enhancing operational efficiency.
He noted that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s (FAAN) investment proposals are deliberately structured to attract private-sector participation through transparent public-private partnership (PPP) frameworks. According to him, Nigeria’s status as both a large market and a strategic aviation hub makes the sector highly attractive to investors.
“Nigeria is not only a large market; it is a strategic aviation hub, and the investment priorities we present are structured, viable, and designed for private-sector leadership,” he said.
Keyamo further highlighted that Nigeria’s strengthened legal and regulatory environment for aviation financing has created a conducive atmosphere for indigenous leasing companies to thrive. This improvement, he said, positions the country to deepen aviation financing while advancing the modernisation of local airline fleets.
Beyond aircraft leasing, the minister outlined additional investment prospects in the sector, including:
- Modernisation of airport infrastructure under the government’s Renewed Hope funding initiative;
- Development of a regional Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) hub to curb capital flight from offshore maintenance;
- Establishment of dedicated cargo and logistics hubs aimed at boosting agricultural and manufacturing exports.
Keyamo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an aviation industry that is competitive, investor-friendly, and capable of supporting Nigeria’s broader economic ambitions.
