By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Federal Government’s reforms in Nigeria’s aviation sector, spearheaded by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, have significantly improved the country’s global standing, according to the Good Governance Advocates of Nigeria (GGAN).

The group lauded the Minister’s leadership in transforming the aviation industry, noting the marked improvements in safety standards, international partnerships, and the country’s aviation compliance score.

Journalists were briefed in Abuja on Thursday by Dr. Opialu Fabian, the Executive Director of the group, who highlighted that the sector’s turnaround is a result of Keyamo’s focused leadership and intentional reforms.

Fabian emphasized that under the Minister’s guidance, Nigeria’s aviation industry has seen a boost in trade, economic development, and strengthened relationships with international aviation stakeholders.

The group commended Keyamo for fostering inclusivity and ensuring the sector adhered to international best practices. Fabian noted that this approach had instilled confidence among aviation operators, helping to improve business development and personal collaborations within the sector.

The group also pointed out that the reforms have attracted foreign direct investment, bolstered Nigeria’s international reputation, and positioned the country as a leader in African aviation.

While acknowledging that challenges like operating costs and inadequate infrastructure still exist, the group expressed confidence that Keyamo’s comprehensive reform strategy would address these issues in due course.

Fabian stated, “Nigeria’s aviation sector has witnessed a spectacular turnaround under the leadership of Minister Festus Keyamo, with notable milestones achieved in the past year. The sector’s compliance with global standards has been strengthened, contributing to a significant improvement in Nigeria’s aviation safety protocols and international reputation.

“The Honourable Minister has achieved more than just operations and infrastructure, though of particular relevance is his emphasis on the development of human capital.

“Mr. Keyamo understood that to create a successful aviation and aerospace sector, he needs to create successful individuals, and it was in this light the Ministry sponsored training programs that improve the abilities of aviation personnel through collaborations with international aviation organizations.

“This strategy makes sure that the reforms in place are sustainable and gets the industry ready for new challenges that could be handled by competent individuals.

“His foresight in creating good policies and reforms have improved the industry’s reputation internationally and drawn in foreign direct investment by fortifying relationships with overseas aviation associations and financiers.

“Evidently, the Minister’s focus on transparency and accountability in the management of aviation resources has enhanced public trust.

“The tales of mismanagement and misappropriation of funds is now a closed chapter in our aviation sector. His sagacious approach in sweeping through the Ministry has shown a steadfast commitment and positioning of sector that’s delivering value to Nigerians while adhering to global best practices.

“Moreover, in position and retaining a man who has proved himself worthy through his work and commitments, it is clear that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s innovative leadership was essential to the aviation sector’s achievements.

“These accomplishments have been made possible by the backing and policy guidance of the president-led administration. His dedication to safety has strengthened Nigeria’s compliance with global standards.

“Operators in the sector now have more confidence, creating a sense of hope for personal collaboration and business development.

“These achievements align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on infrastructural development, economic diversification, and international partnerships.

“His proactive interaction with aviation sector stakeholders has guaranteed inclusivity and conformity to international best practices.

“Under the leadership of Minister Festus Keyamo, the group said the aviation sector has witnessed a spectacular turnaround.”