Major Nigerian airlines, represented by the Airline Operators of Nigeria, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Boeing to enhance aircraft acquisition and safety standards in the country.
The agreement, aimed at advancing various aspects of Nigeria’s aviation industry, was finalized on Wednesday in Seattle, Washington.
Led by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the delegation secured the deal, which was announced on Thursday through the Minister’s official X account.
The MoU, initiated by an invitation from Boeing, focuses on improving technical support, operational efficiency, leadership training, and safety practices.
The signed MoU between Nigerian airlines, under the Airline Operators of Nigeria, and Boeing covers nine critical areas aimed at transforming the country’s aviation sector.
According to the Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, this comprehensive agreement is set to significantly enhance the efficiency, safety, and growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
“Yesterday, in Seattle, State of Washington in the USA, I led a delegation of the Executives of major airlines in Nigeria under the auspices of Airline Operators of Nigeria and other important stakeholders in the civil aviation ecosystem in Nigeria to sign an important Memorandum of Understanding with THE BOEING Company, one of the major aircraft manufacturers in the world,” the statement read in part.
The highlights of the MOU are as follows:
“Leverage Boeing’s network of financiers and lessors to better position Nigerian Airlines to acquire newer generation Boeing aircraft
“Provide enhanced technical support to help airlines introduce new or used Boeing Aircraft.
“Provide training in airline operations and business models to enhance airline business practices.
“Provide technical support via providing access to Boeing data such as maintenance documents, engineering drawings, parts purchasing, and flight operations documents to streamline maintenance practices.
“Provide Boeing Field Services Representation in Nigeria or close by as on-site support.
“Provide leadership-development training to help airlines enhance their leadership pipeline.
“Collaborat with airlines’ in-flight operations, maintenance, and engineering to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
“Collaborate with NCAA and NSIB in close partnership with ICAO and regional regulators to enhance safety oversight in the region.
“Provide consultation via Boeing’s Airports Engineering team to open and/or expand airport capabilities and advisory on MRO development,” the statement read.
In recent months, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has been actively working to secure more favorable terms for Nigerian domestic airlines in acquiring aircraft, aligning with global best practices.
A key focus of his efforts is pursuing dry lease agreements, which would enable Nigerian carriers to obtain planes from international lessors and manufacturers under more advantageous conditions
