Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace, Nigeria

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF AVIATION AND AEROSPACE DEVELOPMENT

PRESS RELEASE

April 7, 2026

KAMBARI DRIVES COLLABORATION, EFFICIENCY IN AVIATION SECTOR WITH STRATEGIC AGENCY VISITS

The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mahmoud Adam Kambari, has commenced a strategic familiarisation tour of aviation agencies, beginning with the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), as part of efforts to strengthen institutional efficiency and deepen inter-agency collaboration.

The visit, which is expected to extend to other agencies under the Ministry, is aimed at gaining firsthand insight into their operations while fostering professionalism, synergy, and industrial harmony across the aviation sector.

Speaking during the visits, Kambari reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with its agencies, describing them as critical partners in achieving national aviation objectives.

He assured agency heads of his readiness to support their mandates and promote a unified approach to sectoral development.

Kambari underscored the importance of reinstating regular top management meetings involving the Honourable Minister, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry Directors, and heads of aviation agencies. He noted that such engagements would serve as a strategic platform for addressing sectoral challenges and advancing sustainable solutions.

Kambari emphasised that his administration would prioritise collaboration, staff welfare, and operational safety, stressing that a motivated workforce is essential for optimal performance. He also called for timely staff promotions across agencies to prevent stagnation and boost morale.

“We will continue to support all agencies to succeed, ensuring that Nigeria’s aviation industry remains a key economic driver and a hub of global connectivity,” he stated.

He further urged staff across the agencies to remain dedicated, loyal, and supportive of their leadership in order to achieve organisational mandates effectively.

Kambari commended the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, and the Director General of NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, describing them as seasoned professionals whose leadership is vital to the growth of the sector.

He reiterated the commitment of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, to aligning Nigeria’s aviation industry with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.

While expressing satisfaction with Nigeria’s current ICAO rating, Kambari charged the agencies to intensify efforts towards improved performance in subsequent evaluation cycles.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, appreciated the Permanent Secretary’s visit, describing it as a confidence-boosting initiative.

He highlighted NAMA’s critical role in managing the nation’s airspace and providing navigation services to airports and aerodromes nationwide.

He also outlined ongoing projects within the agency, including upgrades in Aeronautical Information Services (AIS), Control Tower Infrastructure, Voice Communication and Control Systems (VCCS), and the deployment of Space-Based Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), among others.

However, he noted key challenges such as funding constraints for safety-critical projects, high operational costs, manpower shortages, and revenue deductions, appealing for sustained government support.

Similarly, the Director General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, described the visit as timely and commendable, urging enhanced cooperation among aviation agencies.

He highlighted the Authority’s regulatory achievements, including improvements in staff welfare, infrastructure, ICT systems, and digital transformation.

Najomo further disclosed that the agency has issued eight Air Operator Certificates (AOCs) under the current administration, marking a significant milestone for the industry.

He, however, called for increased funding to address financial limitations associated with its cost-recovery mandate.

The familiarisation tour underscores the Ministry’s renewed drive to strengthen governance, enhance operational efficiency, and position Nigeria’s aviation sector for sustained growth and global competitiveness.

Chindaya Ahmadu Audu Adamu
Director, Press and Public Affairs
08168835298

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF AVIATION AND AEROSPACE DEVELOPMENT

PRESS RELEASE

26TH FEBRUARY, 2026

KEYAMO PERFORMS GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY FOR NAMA CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS

The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK), has performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Corporate Headquarters and Air Traffic Management Centre of the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister described the project as a tangible demonstration of the unwavering commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to aviation safety, job creation, and critical infrastructure development.

He noted that since its establishment, NAMA has operated without a permanent corporate headquarters, and the project presents an opportunity to honour the dedication of staff who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and smooth management of Nigeria’s airspace.

Keyamo emphasized that the new facility will enhance operational efficiency, attract investment, strengthen safety architecture, promote innovation, and contribute to economic growth. He affirmed that the project is being executed in strict compliance with the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) requirements and is scheduled for completion within 30 months.

Keyamo charged the contractor to treat the project as a national assignment, stressing that there must be no compromise on quality, specifications, or standards. He directed that all processes be properly monitored to ensure timely and standard delivery.

He also commiserated with the management and staff of NAMA over the recent fire outbreak at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, and commended the agency for its swift response in restoring operations.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu and the Honourable Minister for their support in actualizing the long-awaited corporate headquarters. He described the development as monumental, noting that for over two decades, the agency has operated without a befitting office complex.

Farouk further stated that the new Corporate Headquarters and Air Traffic Management Centre will unify and modernize Nigeria’s Airspace Management system, enhance safety and innovation, reduce technical redundancies, and improve staff welfare. He appealed for sustained funding and robust monitoring, given the capital-intensive nature of the project.

In a goodwill message, the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, commended NAMA’s management for the laudable initiative, stating that the project aligns with global best practices and will further elevate Nigeria’s aviation sector. He reaffirmed NCAA’s commitment to providing necessary regulatory and certification support.

Also speaking, Mr. Lukeman Olatunbosun, Director of Human Resources Management, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), described the groundbreaking as timely and significant, noting that it would enhance operational efficiency and foster innovation within the sector.

The Director-General of the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Captain Alex Badeh Jnr; the Rector of the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Danjuma Ismaila; and the Director-General/CEO of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Prof. Charles Anosike, all emphasized the importance of timely completion and adherence to construction and safety standards, urging the contractor not to compromise on quality.

The contractor, NHB INTERBIZ PROJECT LTD assured stakeholders of its commitment to delivering a world-class edifice that meets all prescribed safety and structural standards within the agreed timeline.

Other dignitaries at the ceremony included the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, as well as representatives of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Nigerian Air Force.

Margaret Oyinboade
Ag. Head, Press and Public Relations

The US justice department charged a retired F-15 and F-16 fighter jet pilot with violating the law by training Chinese military pilots without the required approval. https://ft.trib.al/GIYCj3g

This Black History Month, we honor a man who changed commercial aviation forever.

Picture the interview room in 1964. David E. Harris, a decorated Air Force captain who had flown B-52 bombers armed with nuclear weapons, sat across from an American Airlines recruiter. Harris had light skin and green eyes. He could have passed for white. He refused. He stopped the interview and told them plainly that he was Black. Every other airline had already rejected him or never called back. He wasn't going to hide who he was just to get the job.

The recruiter's response stunned him. He said he didn't care if Harris was Black, white, or chartreuse. He just wanted to know if the man could fly an airplane.
On December 3, 1964, David Harris became the first Black pilot hired by a major U.S. airline. Within three years he made Captain, another first. Over 30 years at American he flew nearly everything in the fleet, from the Douglas DC-6 all the way up to the Boeing 747.

Harris never forgot those who came before him. He grew up visiting Lockbourne Air Force Base in Ohio, where the legendary Tuskegee Airmen were stationed after World War II. Five hundred of those men were qualified to fly for the airlines. Not one was ever hired. Harris once said there was no way he should have been the first, and that it should have happened long before 1964.

He spent the rest of his career mentoring young Black pilots and co-founded the Organization of Black Airline Pilots. Among those who credited him with opening the door was Guion Bluford Jr., the first African American in space.

Harris passed away on March 8, 2024. He was 89.

FMINO PRESS RELEASE


Reforms Must Be Clearly Communicated to Prevent Resistance — Information Minister

The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that public service reforms are not only implemented but clearly communicated to Nigerians to strengthen transparency, accountability and digital governance.

The Minister stated this during a courtesy visit by the Director-General, Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi and the management team of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) to his office in Abuja on Wednesday. He stressed that communication is central to the success of any reform programme. “Reforms must not only be implemented; they must also be effectively communicated. Where reforms are not properly understood, there is always resistance. Our duty is to ensure Nigerians understand that these reforms are designed for their greater good,” he said.

He commended BPSR for sustaining institutional reforms across the public service and described reform as essential to national development. The Minister pointed to the digitisation of Nigeria’s public financial management system as one of the most impactful changes in recent years. According to him, the end of paper-based financial processes has improved transparency, blocked leakages and strengthened accountability across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). “Gone are the days when contractors rushed ministries at year-end to collect cheques. Today, the system is digitised. If the banking sector can operate seamlessly across Nigeria using technology managed by Nigerians, then our public service can work efficiently too,” he said.

The Minister added that structural reforms must be supported by attitudinal change. He explained that the inclusion of National Orientation in the Ministry’s mandate reflects the Federal Government’s resolve to promote patriotism, civic responsibility and shared ownership of public institutions. He also disclosed ongoing efforts to modernise and digitise Nigeria’s archival system to preserve institutional memory and prevent policy gaps. He stressed the importance of media and information literacy in tackling misinformation, deepfakes and artificial intelligence-driven manipulation.

He assured the delegation that agencies under the Ministry, including the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Voice of Nigeria (VON), and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), will continue to amplify reform milestones and ensure that Nigerians are properly informed. Earlier, the Director-General of BPSR said the visit was to strengthen collaboration with the Ministry to accelerate reforms, improve communication, and enhance transparency across MDAs.

Earlier, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms stated that the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the Ministry to accelerate reform communication and enhance transparency across MDAs. He outlined the key pillars of the National Strategy on Public Service Reforms, which focus on improving governance standards, strengthening national development planning, digitising public financial management, and promoting citizen engagement. “Public service reform is not a one-off intervention; it is a continuous process of strengthening institutions, improving accountability, and leveraging technology to deliver better outcomes for citizens. Our partnership with the Ministry of Information and National Orientation is critical to ensuring that these reforms are clearly communicated, properly understood, and sustainably implemented across all MDAs,” the Director-General stated.

The DG noted that digitisation reforms have significantly reduced irregularities such as ghost workers and improved payroll integrity across federal, state, and local governments. He further emphasised the need for improved compliance with the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and encouraged MDAs to proactively disclose budgetary and operational information on their official platforms. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance digital literacy among public servants, including training on the responsible use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence to safeguard government communication systems.


Rabiu Ibrahim
Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation.
Wednesday, 25th February, 2026.

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF AVIATION AND AEROSPACE DEVELOPMENT

PRESS RELEASE

25TH FEBRUARY, 2026

AVIATION MINISTER PRESENTS ₦184.39BN 2026 BUDGET PROPOSAL TO NASS, HIGHLIGHTS 2025 MILESTONES

The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FICArb UK, on Wednesday, 25th February 2026, presented the sum of ₦184,392,160,433.00 as the Ministry’s proposed 2026 budget to the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Aviation at the National Assembly.

Presenting the proposal, the Minister expressed appreciation to the Committees for their unwavering support and cooperation since the inception of the current administration.

He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to sustaining a strong partnership with the National Assembly in advancing the growth and transformation of Nigeria’s aviation industry.

Keyamo stated that the 2026 budget proposal is strategically designed to modernise safety systems, upgrade digital infrastructure, and strengthen human capacity development across the aviation ecosystem.

He noted that the Ministry remains focused on enhancing operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and service delivery in line with global best practices.

Highlighting achievements recorded in the 2025 fiscal year despite funding constraints, the Minister disclosed that the Federal Government successfully cleared outstanding debts owed to foreign airlines.

He also listed other significant milestones, including Nigeria’s compliance with the Cape Town Convention, the reopening of direct flight operations to the United Arab Emirates, the commencement of direct Abuja–Heathrow operations by a local airline to enhance competition and reduce fares, and the establishment of a national aircraft leasing company to support domestic operators.

Keyamo further briefed the Committees on the recent fire outbreak at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, which destroyed critical equipment belonging to some aviation agencies.

He appealed to the National Assembly to support the affected agencies in replacing the damaged equipment, noting that the incident resulted in significant operational losses within the sector.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, Buhari Abdulfatai, emphasised that public funds must be judiciously managed, stressing that it is the constitutional responsibility of the National Assembly to appropriate funds and ensure transparency and accountability.

He urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to prioritise the completion of ongoing projects and avoid project abandonment.

Senator Abdulfatai further encouraged the Minister to sustain the cordial relationship between the Ministry and the Committee and ensure that the 2026 budget proposal achieves its intended objectives.

Similarly, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation, Festus Olanrewaju, advised that the budget implementation should remain people-oriented, promote infrastructural development, and contribute meaningfully to national economic growth.

Present at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, Directors of the Ministry, and Heads of aviation agencies.

Margaret Oyinboade
Ag. Head, Press and Public Affairs

Young Meteorological Ambassadors at the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction.

(First Roll, 2ND From Left): Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry during official unveiling of the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction.

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF AVIATION AND AEROSPACE DEVELOPMENT

PRESS RELEASE

10TH FEBRUARY,

FG UNVEILS 2026 SEASONAL CLIMATE PREDICTION, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO CLIMATE-INFORMED DEVELOPMENT

Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to climate-informed planning and sustainable national development with the public presentation of the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).

Speaking at the event organised by NiMet at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK), described the SCP as a strategic national tool that translates climate science into actionable guidance for government, the private sector and citizens.

Keyamo noted that the annual SCP presentation has become a critical national reference, with clear testimonies from government institutions and private sector operators on how NiMet’s early warning products have enhanced agricultural productivity and strengthened disaster risk reduction efforts.

“Climate variability and climate change are no longer distant threats; they are daily realities shaping aviation safety, food security, infrastructure development, national security and economic decisions. Timely and accurate weather and climate information is now a strategic enabler of good governance and sustainable development,” he stated.

He emphasized that the SCP aligns directly with the priorities of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administration, particularly in the areas of economic stability, food security, infrastructure resilience, climate adaptation, and the protection of lives and livelihoods.

Reaffirming the Ministry’s support for NiMet, Keyamo stressed that safe, efficient and sustainable aviation operations depend on reliable metreological services, while climate data remains essential for broader national planning and economic growth.

Highlighting NiMet’s long history, he traced the foundation of meteorological observations in Nigeria to 1886, commending the Agency for its consistent delivery of services across aviation safety, agriculture, disaster risk reduction, water resources management, health, energy and transportation.

Presenting highlights of the 2026 SCP, the Minister explained that early rainfall onset is expected in parts of the South and Middle Belt, while late onset is anticipated in Borno State. Projections on rainfall cessation, length of the rainy season, dry spells, the Little Dry Season (August Break), and temperature patterns indicate that most parts of the country will experience normal annual rainfall, with pockets of above-normal and below-normal rainfall across some states.

He stressed that development efforts not guided by credible climate information remain vulnerable and unsustainable, calling for sustained investment in climate science, human capacity development and effective dissemination of climate information at federal, state and local government levels.

Keyamo also urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), state governments, academia, the private sector, development partners and the media to actively support the dissemination and application of the 2026 SCP.

He said Federal Government will continue empowering NiMet as a centre of excellence in weather and climate services, and as a trusted provider of scientific guidance for national development.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, described the 2026 SCP as a critical tool for sustainable growth and national resilience.

He stated that the SCP goes beyond a scientific forecast, serving as a strategic national resource that equips policymakers, planners and stakeholders with credible, actionable climate information for informed decision-making.

“In a climate-sensitive country like Nigeria, seasonal forecasts play a vital role in aviation, agriculture, water resources management, disaster risk reduction, public health, transportation, energy and infrastructure development,” he said.

He commended NiMet for its sustained commitment to delivering Climate Science for Sustainable Development, noting that the increasing intensity of climate variability and extreme weather events makes the application of climate science indispensable for protecting livelihoods, safeguarding investments and achieving long-term socio-economic growth.

Also speaking at the event, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of NiMet and Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), Professor Charles Anosike, described the SCP as a critical national tool for addressing the growing impacts of climate variability and extreme weather events.

Anosike disclosed that NiMet has continued to strengthen its operational capacity through the adoption of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to enhance forecasting accuracy and service delivery. He revealed that the Agency has recently constituted a dedicated team of experts to integrate and operationalise AI in its forecasting operations.

He acknowledged the foundational role of NiMet’s pioneer Director-General/CEO, Chief Lihwu Eugene Akeh, and expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, particularly the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, for sustained support in advancing climate-smart, data-driven development initiatives.

He further revealed that the Agency has established strong partnerships with government and non-governmental organisations to downscale seasonal climate information for local farmers across several states, while efforts are ongoing to expand digital climate advisory services in collaboration with local and international partners.

He called on state governments to partner with NiMet to enhance the dissemination and localisation of the 2026 SCP across more states.“The Nigerian Meteorological Agency remains committed to providing timely, accurate and reliable weather and climate information to support a resilient and sustainable Nigerian economy,” he assured.

The event attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including meteorologists, climatologists, policymakers, farmers, emergency managers, private sector operators, civil society organisations, development partners and members of the international community, who commended the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction as a vital national resource.

Maragret Oyinboade
Ag. Head, Press and Public Affair