Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has issued a stern warning to foreign airlines, threatening to withhold approval of their summer schedules unless they commit to partnering with local caterers for in-flight meals.
Keyamo made the bold declaration during a high-profile stakeholders meeting on “Transforming the Aviation Industry” held in Lagos on Friday.
He expressed his disappointment that local catering businesses have not been able to tap into the significant revenues generated by foreign airlines operating in the country.
“I will not approve the summer schedules for foreign airlines unless they present a formal agreement with our local caterers,” Keyamo declared firmly. He further added that foreign carriers are free to cease operations in Nigeria if they are unwilling to engage with Nigerian suppliers.
In addition to addressing catering concerns, the aviation minister unveiled exciting news for the North East. Keyamo revealed that the Maiduguri airport is undergoing an ambitious upgrade, transforming it into the region’s first international airport—a milestone he described as a major development for the area.
Keyamo’s comments highlight his strong stance on ensuring that the growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector also benefits local businesses and promotes regional development.
