FG Mulls Plans For Aircraft Manufacturing In Nigeria
The federal government through the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has hinted at a nearly accomplished plan to establish an aircraft manufacturing firm in Nigeria.
Keyamo noted that the move aligns with the federal government’s vision to support local operators and boost the nation’s aviation industry.
Keyamo announced this during the launch of XeJet’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility and flight support center in Abuja.
The facility is a collaboration between XeJet and indigenous banks, which is aimed at transforming Nigeria into a regional hub for aviation services.
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“Since we came to office, we’ve been focused on attracting MRO facilities to our aviation ecosystem, just as they exist in other parts of the world.
“We’ve searched far and wide for investors, but now we see that what we were looking for elsewhere is right here at home. This collaboration between an indigenous operator and local banks is a dream come true,” Keyamo said.
Speaking still, the Minister emphasized the project’s significance, noting the inclusion of additional facilities like a training center, which he described as “a huge achievement.”
Keyamo added: “This development will not only serve Nigeria but will attract users from across the West African sub-region. That’s the dream—to make this facility a regional center for excellence.”
Iza speaking on the number of jobs the multi million dollar project is set to offer to Nigerians, said: “Currently, XeJet employs about 300 people. With this new facility, we expect to quadruple that number. First phase involves site preparation, including leveling the ground and constructing a taxiway to connect the runway to the facility, which is estimated to cost $5 million. The structure itself will require an equal investment,” he said.
Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.
