Aviation Expert Applauds Keyamo For Revolutionizing Aero Sector Within 8 Months In Office
.. Engr Amuga says recent unprecedented record speaks volume
Oru Leonard
Aviation expert Engr, Joshua Amuga has praised the efforts of the current Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, whose remarkable achievements within 8 months have significantly contributed to the growth and progress of the aviation industry in Nigeria. Delivering on the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), the actionable programs and projects of the honorable minister has translated into the remarkable achievement we are experiencing now.
In a chat with News Dot Africa, Engr Amuga said the honorable Minister has repositioned the aviation industry since his assumption into office with a commitment to excellence and a strong focus on international cooperation, Chief Festus Keyamo has successfully elevated bilateral relations and collaboration between Nigeria and the global aviation community in line with standard and recommended practices stipulated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Engr Amuga says since Keyamo’s appointment into office, he has demonstrated commendable determination and vision needed to sanitize the aviation industry, prioritizing ministry staff welfare and extended same to all agencies under the ministry’s supervision. That is why you hear little of industrial actions in the aviation industry.
Amongst his achievements, Engr Amuga said the recent inauguration of the 1 billion Naira export processing and packaging center (EPPC) at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Lagos, the first of its kind since the inception of democracy in 1999 is top notch.
Engr Amuga said that other notable achievement that the aviation industry experienced under the leadership of the current Minister includes engaging Thales, a French company which specializes in provision of world class technology for aerospace, space, ground transportation, defence and security to upgrade the Total Radar Coverage (TRACON) Systems within Nigerian aviation sector during his visit to Thales’ headquarters in Rouen –Ymare, France,
The Minister categorically stated “ I have taken my time to come all the way because I want the best equipment for my country” he expressed his commitment to acquiring cutting –edge radar technology for the countries airports.
On the issue of non-stop flights to London. Engr Joshua Amuga said, “The Honourable Minister held discussion with the United Kingdom Department for Transportation on how Nigerian major carriers can obtain favourable slot allocations for fixed and consistent departure time and arrival in normal schedule flight service in London Airports”.
Engr Amuga while expressing optimism, said that the 2024 hajj operation in the interest of the pilgrims has seen the Honorable Minister’s concerted effort to have a seamless Hajj operations. He recently met with the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia and have set up a bilateral committee with both the Saudi’s and Nigerian carriers to meet in fortnights until the commencement of the operations.
“I can assure you that because of the early pro-activeness of the honorable Minister of Aviation we will experience a flawless and seamless 2024 Hajj operations “… Engr Amuga.
In the field of infrastructural development and technological transfers, The Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development visited Magnus Aircraft Group in Hungary to seek collaboration on building an aircraft manufacturing and assemblage capacity in Nigeria following his invitation by Magnus Aircraft Group to attend its product introduction event a useful avenue to explore strategic partnership.
The minister was particular in incorporation of the aircraft into training programs for students at the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) in Abuja. The impact of the collaboration is already been felt, with Magnus Aircraft products deployed for Agricultural purpose by NALDA and utilized by NCAT for security and surveillance duties.
Engr Amuga said Chief Festus Keyamo’s as the honorable Minister for aviation and aerospace development showed commitment to sustainable development through the launch of a long-term low emission development strategy in the aviation sector. Recognizing the environmental challenges posed by air travel, and has championed the adoption of eco-friendly practices and technologies. This forward-thinking initiative not only aligns with global efforts to combat climate change but also positions Nigeria as a responsible and environmentally conscious player in the aviation industry.
Under the dynamic leadership of Chief Festus Keyamo, the aviation sector in Nigeria has witnessed significant advancements in international collaboration, technological infrastructure, professionalism, and sustainability. His achievements reflect a deep commitment to excellence and a vision for a thriving and globally competitive aviation industry in Nigeria and certainly we are optimistic that the minister will restore the lost glory of the defunct “Nigeria Air”.
The aviation expert while commenting on the issue of relocation of FAAN back to Lagos said the Hon minister has explained and address the issue, that out of 7 agencies under the purview of his ministry only one was going back to Lagos, even with the fact that out of 132 staff operating in the Headquarters (HQ) of FAAN 100 are still in Lagos. So all the principal officers at the HQ of FAAN can’t operate efficiently without their supporting staff. The agency will be saved a whopping half a billion naira from air tickets as a result of flights from Lagos to Abuja vice-versa for signing of files.
Lastly, Engr Amuga stated that on the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU). The Honorable Minister Festus Keyamo has collaborated with esteemed entities such as the Qatar Government, Swinburne University Australia, University of Coventry UK, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia and most recently, Emirate Aviation University, Dubai. So it’s glaring that this underscores the Minister’s commitment to global excellence.
“The Minister hopes the AAAU aspires to position Nigeria as a hub for Aviation education in Africa”..Engr Amuga concluded.
