From Sola Ojo, Abuja
To advance Nigeria’s aviation sector, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Boeing, one of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers.
The document was signed on Wednesday in Seattle, Washington DC, United States, in the presence of key Nigerian aviation stakeholders, including executives from major Nigerian airlines, top management staff of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and representatives from the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON).
The MoU signed by the Minister and Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, Anbessie Yitbarek, marked a significant step in enhancing the operational efficiency and safety of Nigerian airlines while positioning them for growth in the global aviation market.
Special Adviser (Media and Communications) to the Minister, Mr. Tunde Moshood, in a statement on Thursday, said the development would make Boeing leverage its extensive network of financiers and lessors to help Nigerian airlines acquire newer generation Boeing aircraft, thus modernizing their fleets.
According to him, “Boeing will provide enhanced technical support to assist airlines in the introduction of new or used Boeing aircraft, ensuring smooth integration into existing operations.
“The agreement includes provisions for comprehensive training in airline operations and business models, aimed at improving the business practices and operational efficiency of Nigerian airlines.
“Boeing will grant Nigerian airlines access to its vast repository of maintenance documents, engineering drawings, parts purchasing, and flight operations documents, streamlining maintenance practices and reducing operational downtimes.
“Boeing will provide on-site Field Services Representation in Nigeria or nearby locations, offering immediate support to airlines as they navigate operational challenges.
“A leadership-development training program will be implemented to strengthen the leadership pipeline within Nigerian airlines, ensuring sustained growth and excellence.
“Boeing will collaborate with Nigerian airlines on in-flight operations, maintenance, and engineering to enhance safety and operational efficiency across the board.
“In partnership with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Boeing will work closely with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and regional regulators to bolster safety oversight within the region.
“Boeing’s Airports Engineering team will provide consultation to open or expand airport capabilities across Nigeria and offer advisory services on the development of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.
He quoted his principal saying, “This partnership with Boeing represents a significant milestone in our efforts to modernize and enhance the capabilities of Nigerian airlines.
“The benefits of this MoU will be far-reaching, not only in improving the operational efficiency of our airlines but also in ensuring the safety and reliability of air travel in Nigeria,” he said.
Anbessie Yitbarek, Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa at Boeing, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating,
He also quoted Anbessie Yitbarek saying “We are excited to work closely with Nigeria’s aviation stakeholders to deliver tailored solutions that will help Nigerian airlines thrive in the competitive global aviation landscape.
“This MoU underscores our commitment to supporting the growth and development of aviation in Africa”.
Photo:
L-R. Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, and Mr. Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Aviation Minister shortly after signing the MoU in Seattle, Washington DC, US, on Wednesday