FG unveils plans for aircraft manufacturing in Nigeria
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has hinted at a nearly-accomplished plan to establish an aircraft manufacturing firm in Nigeria.
Keyamo noted that the move aligns with the federal government’s vision to support local operators and boost the nation’s aviation industry.
Keyamo made this announcement during the launch of XeJet’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility and flight support center in Abuja.
Vanguard reports that the facility is a collaboration between XeJet and indigenous banks, which is aimed at transforming Nigeria into a regional hub for aviation services.
“Since we came to office, we’ve been focused on attracting MRO facilities to our aviation ecosystem, just as they exist in other parts of the world.
“We’ve searched far and wide for investors, but now we see that what we were looking for elsewhere is right here at home. This collaboration between an indigenous operator and local banks is a dream come true,” Keyamo said.
Speaking still, the Minister emphasized the project’s significance, noting the inclusion of additional facilities like a training center, which he described as “a huge achievement.”
Keyamo added: “This development will not only serve Nigeria but will attract users from across the West African sub-region. That’s the dream—to make this facility a regional center for excellence.”
Speaking on the broader vision, the Chief Executive Officer of XEJet, Emmanuel Iza, highlighted plans to position Nigeria on the global map of aircraft manufacturing, repairs and operations.
“The vision is ambitious. It is to contribute to aircraft manufacturing, even if it’s just components like wings, landing gears, or tires. Nigeria has the talent and ability; we just need the enabling environment and facilities to make it happen,” he said.
Iza speaking on the number of jobs the multi million dollar project is set to offer to Nigerians, said: “Currently, XeJet employs about 300 people. With this new facility, we expect to quadruple that number. First phase involves site preparation, including leveling the ground and constructing a taxiway to connect the runway to the facility, which is estimated to cost $5 million. The structure itself will require an equal investment,” he said.
