By Joy Onu
The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has presented a proposed ₦184,392,160,433.00 budget for the 2026 fiscal year to the National Assembly, outlining plans to modernise safety systems, strengthen digital infrastructure, and enhance manpower development across Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who defended the proposal before the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Aviation on Wednesday, said the spending plan is aimed at boosting operational efficiency, improving regulatory compliance, and aligning the sector with global best practices.
He commended the aviation committees for their consistent support and pledged sustained collaboration with lawmakers to drive reforms and deepen growth in the industry.
Reflecting on the 2025 fiscal year, Keyamo said the Ministry recorded notable achievements despite funding challenges. Among them, he listed the clearance of outstanding debts owed to foreign airlines, improved compliance with international aviation obligations, and the restoration of direct flight operations between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates.
The Minister also highlighted the commencement of direct Abuja–Heathrow services by a local carrier to stimulate competition and potentially lower airfares, as well as the establishment of a national aircraft leasing company designed to strengthen domestic airline capacity.
Addressing recent sector challenges, Keyamo informed lawmakers about the fire incident at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, which destroyed critical equipment belonging to some aviation agencies. He appealed for legislative backing to enable swift replacement of the damaged assets, noting that the incident disrupted operations and resulted in financial losses.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, Buhari Abdulfatai, stressed that public funds must be judiciously managed, reiterating the constitutional duty of the National Assembly to ensure transparency and accountability in budgetary allocations. He urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies to prioritise ongoing projects and avoid abandonment.
Similarly, Chairman of the House Committee on Aviation, Festus Olanrewaju, called for people-focused budget implementation that would promote infrastructure development and contribute meaningfully to national economic growth.
Senior officials of the Ministry, including the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, directors, and heads of aviation agencies, were present at the budget session.
