In an effort to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation sector, Boeing has invited Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, to attend the upcoming Airline Economics Conference in Dublin, Ireland. Scheduled for January 12 to 15, 2025, this event will serve as a significant international platform for Minister Keyamo to engage directly with global aircraft leasing companies and to showcase the recent advancements in Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
Moore Ibekwe, Boeing’s Commercial Sales Director for Africa, commended the progress made by the Federal Ministry of Aviation under Keyamo’s leadership. He noted the favorable attention that has followed the Minister’s recent visit to Boeing’s facilities in the United States. Ibekwe emphasized that the Dublin conference presents an excellent opportunity to build on this positive momentum, allowing Nigeria to demonstrate its aviation development efforts to key industry players.
In his invitation letter, Ibekwe highlighted the importance of the conference as a chance for Minister Keyamo to directly inform lessors about Nigeria’s evolving aviation infrastructure and its ambitious development goals. Boeing plans to facilitate meetings between the Nigerian delegation and top executives from leasing companies to foster connections and discussions. Additionally, Boeing aims to collaborate with African financial institutions, including the Africa Trade Insurance Agency (ATIDI), to create credit enhancement products designed specifically for Nigeria. These financial tools are intended to provide additional security for global lessors, thereby simplifying the process of leasing aircraft to Nigerian airlines.
Ibekwe recommended that the Nigerian delegation be small and strategically focused, emphasizing airlines that have a strong interest in leasing new aircraft over the next two years. This approach is designed to highlight tangible business opportunities and reinforce Nigeria’s readiness for growth in the aviation sector.
As Nigeria accelerates its aviation development, the upcoming conference is expected to play a crucial role in establishing international partnerships, securing financial backing, and positioning the country as an emerging aviation hub within Africa.