30% statutory fee discount to strengthen domestic airlines – Keyamo

The Nigerian Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, led by Minister Festus Keyamo, has announced a significant policy shift aimed at revitalizing the domestic aviation sector. At the conclusion of the African Air Transport Expo 2026 in Lomé, Togo, Keyamo revealed that the federal government has approved a 30 percent discount on statutory fees for domestic airline operators. This measure is intended to alleviate the financial burdens faced by airlines, particularly in the context of the broader African aviation landscape. The decision reflects a growing recognition of the need to transition from symbolic commitments to actionable strategies that directly benefit both airlines and passengers.

This initiative comes amid increasing calls for greater regional integration within Africa's aviation sector. Keyamo emphasized that the continent must move beyond mere policy declarations and instead implement concrete reforms that foster economic growth and improved connectivity. He described aviation as a strategic economic enabler rather than a source of excessive government revenue, highlighting the importance of reducing operational costs for airlines. The minister underscored that Nigeria is actively working to drive down these costs through multiple initiatives, including the 30 percent discount on statutory fees, the pursuit of VAT neutrality, and the audit of duplicate levies.

In addition to the fee reduction, Keyamo outlined a series of steps aimed at enhancing air connectivity across the continent. These include streamlining permits for African carriers, aligning air agreements, and leading the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) to treat West Africa as a unified domestic market. His remarks reflect a broader vision of transforming Africa into a truly interconnected region where seamless air transport can significantly boost trade, tourism, investment, and regional integration. Keyamo stressed that the true measure of success lies not in the number of agreements signed but in the actual opening of new routes and the removal of travel restrictions that hinder passenger mobility.

The minister also challenged African governments and industry stakeholders to prioritize measurable outcomes over declarative statements. He urged all parties to focus on tangible results that directly impact the aviation sector and its users. This call for action follows a series of high-profile events, including the African Air Transport Convention and Expo 2026, where Nigeria played a central role in advancing regional cooperation and integration. During the event, Keyamo led a high-level Nigerian delegation that included notable figures such as Mrs. Adefunke Adeyemi, the Secretary-General of the African Civil Aviation Commission, and Captain Chris Najomo, the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority.

Nigeria's commitment to fostering a single African air market was reaffirmed by Keyamo, who highlighted the nation's dedication to the principles of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He emphasized that enhanced air connectivity is crucial for unlocking Africa's economic potential and ensuring that the continent becomes a more attractive destination for trade and investment. The minister also expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts between Nigeria and other African nations to create a more efficient and integrated aviation ecosystem.

In parallel, recent developments indicate that the government is also taking concrete steps to bolster the competitiveness of Nigerian airlines on the international stage. For instance, the federal government has approved several international routes for United Nigeria Airlines, including services to New York, Dubai, and Canada. This decision is part of a broader strategy to enable Nigerian carriers to capture a larger share of the international passenger traffic market, which has traditionally been dominated by foreign airlines. Keyamo noted that Nigerian airlines currently account for only a small fraction of international passenger traffic, despite existing bilateral agreements that should grant them reciprocal operating rights.

These efforts are complemented by government support for fleet expansion and the establishment of a Nigerian aircraft leasing company, which aims to address the financial challenges that have historically hindered the growth of domestic airlines. By facilitating access to aircraft acquisition and leasing opportunities, the government hopes to empower Nigerian carriers to compete more effectively on the global stage. Keyamo also reiterated the government's preference for supporting privately owned Nigerian carriers, arguing that such structures tend to minimize political interference and enhance operational efficiency.

As the Nigerian aviation sector continues to evolve, the government's multifaceted approach—ranging from regulatory reforms to international route expansions—signals a renewed commitment to positioning the country as a leader in the African aviation landscape. With ongoing efforts to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance connectivity, the path forward appears to be one of sustained progress and transformative change.