The Federal Government has entered into a strategic partnership with European aircraft manufacturer Airbus, focusing on key areas including infrastructure development, maintenance capability, and human capital advancement.

The collaboration was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, details of which were disclosed in a statement issued on Monday, according to The Punch.

Under the terms of the MoU, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, signed the agreement during a working visit to Airbus’ global headquarters in Toulouse, France.
Keyamo described the pact as a significant milestone for the aviation industry, noting that it would accelerate Nigeria’s drive to establish a sustainable and globally competitive aviation ecosystem.

He said, “We are deeply honored to engage in a long-term partnership with Airbus. This agreement aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to accelerating the development of Nigeria’s aeronautical ecosystem in all its dimensions.”

Keyamo joined by top aviation officials, including leaders of regulatory and airspace management bodies, noted that the partnership is not limited to infrastructure but also covers knowledge exchange and the development of technical expertise.

Under the agreement, Airbus will deliver comprehensive support covering aviation infrastructure development, pilot and engineer training, as well as advisory services on Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul operations.

Also speaking, the President of Airbus for Africa and the Middle East, Gabriel Semelas stressed Nigeria’s key role in the future of aviation across Africa.

Semelas said, “Nigeria is at the heart of Africa’s aerospace opportunity, driven by its large population and growing economy. This agreement reflects our shared ambition to scale the civil aviation ecosystem in the country.

“By leveraging local talent and infrastructure, we are committed to fostering long-term growth and developing human capability to secure the continent’s aviation future.”

Beyond Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) and training, the partnership will also explore Nigeria’s potential in Sustainable Aviation Fuel production, aligning the country with global efforts toward greener aviation.

Airbus, which already has a strong presence in Africa with about 3,000 employees, said the agreement strengthens its commitment to enhancing technical expertise and building local capacity across the continent.