Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has announced that both private and public entities are invited to submit proposals for establishing a new national carrier. In a post on X on Sunday, he reiterated statements made during the launch of Wole Shadare’s book, 100 Years of Civil Aviation In Nigeria: History, Issues and Prospects, held in Lagos last Friday.

Keyamo emphasized that the federal government will no longer fund the creation of a national carrier, opting instead to implement policies that promote the growth and competitiveness of local operators against international airlines. Recent reforms, including updates to insurance regulations for leased aircraft, have already enabled local airlines to expand their fleets, ultimately resulting in lower ticket prices for consumers.

Reaffirming his position, Keyamo stated, “The correct story should be that the FG will not invest a dime in establishing a National Carrier, but is always open to proposals from private or public entities, both in and out of the country that truly benefit Nigeria and Nigerians in establishing a National Carrier.” He further highlighted that the government remains committed to fostering a supportive environment for local airlines throughout this transition.