Nigeria and Airbus sign pact to boost aerospace development
The federal government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus to reposition the country’s aviation sector and foster a robust, sustainable aerospace ecosystem. The agreement was signed during
The federal government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus to reposition the country's aviation sector and foster a robust, sustainable aerospace ecosystem.
The agreement was signed during a working visit to the company’s global headquarters in Toulouse by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
Under the agreement, Airbus and the federal government will collaborate to strengthen Nigeria’s civil aviation ecosystem through targeted support for aviation infrastructure development and human capital enhancement.
The Minister, in a statement by his media aide, Tunde Moshood, described the agreement as a strategic leap forward for Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“We are deeply honoured 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.”
The President of Airbus for Africa and the Middle East, Gabriel Semelas, emphasised Nigeria’s importance in the global aviation landscape.
“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 country's civil aviation ecosystem. 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.”
As part of the partnership, Airbus will provide comprehensive technical support, including aviation market intelligence, crew and maintenance training, and advisory services on Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) operations.
Read Also: Pastor Dolapo Lawal criticises Nigerians selling property for care jobs abroad
The collaboration will also explore Nigeria’s potential to produce Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) while supporting the training and development of the next generation of Nigerian aviation professionals.
This agreement builds on Airbus’s presence in Africa, supported by a workforce of approximately 3,000 employees across the continent.
It also reinforces the company’s commitment to strengthening Africa’s aerospace ecosystem through local partnerships, skills development, and advancing technical expertise.
According to Airbus’s latest Global Market Forecast, Africa is projected to require approximately 1,490 new passenger and cargo aircraft by 2044.
The forecast also indicates that demand for skilled aviation personnel will increase, with the continent needing over 20,000 pilots, 20,000 maintenance engineers, and 21,000 cabin crew members to meet anticipated growth in air travel.
The Minister was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mahmud Kambari; the Director General of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Farouk Umar, Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris NajomoMohammed Tijjani, Director of Air Traffic Management, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Director of Air Safety Administration, Engr. Michael Chukwu, and Director of Aerodrome & Air Standards, NCAA, Ahmed Abba.
