Nigeria’s government is preparing legislation that will compel all public servants to book flights with domestic airlines whenever traveling internationally.
This initiative seeks to channel official travel spending back into the local economy and strengthen the nation’s aviation sector.
Announcement at Flight Debut
The proposal was unveiled by Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister Festus Keyamo during a milestone event: the launch of Air Peace’s first nonstop service from Abuja to London’s Heathrow Airport. The ceremony symbolized growing capabilities in Nigerian air travel.
Gathering of Leaders
The occasion took place at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and attracted prominent attendees, including Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Allen Onyema, founder and chairman of Air Peace. Their presence underscored cross-sector support for advancing national carriers.
Keyamo formally presented the forthcoming bill, titled the Fly Nigerian Act, and voiced strong optimism about its legislative journey. He indicated direct engagement with lawmakers to ensure swift processing.
Rule Essentials
Under the planned law, every state official from ministers and senators to agency directors must prioritize Nigerian-operated flights if such options exist on their intended route. Keyamo clarified the priority rule:
“Book the local carrier first unless none serves that destination.” This exception ensures practicality while enforcing preference.
International Examples
The minister drew parallels with established policies abroad. Countries like the United States and India enforce similar “fly local” directives for official travel.
These frameworks protect national airlines, stabilize jobs, and retain foreign exchange. Keyamo argued that Nigeria risks falling behind without comparable measures.
Operational Details
In daily application, travel coordinators for government personnel would begin by checking schedules of Nigerian airlines.
Only after confirming no viable local option would foreign carriers be considered. This structured approach aims to systematically increase passenger volume and revenue for domestic operators.
Drive for Approval
Keyamo committed his ministry to championing the bill through parliament. Collaboration with influential figures like Kalu is expected to streamline debates and voting.
The goal is enactment within the current legislative session to begin yielding benefits promptly.
Domestic Flight Operators
Nigeria currently sustains around 23 active airlines focused on internal routes. Notable names include Air Peace, Arik Air, Azman Air, Dana Air, and Ibom Air.
Among them, Air Peace stands alone in managing long-haul international services, positioning it as the immediate primary beneficiary of the new policy.
Expected Outcomes
If passed, the Fly Nigerian Act would deliver a substantial boost to local carriers. Increased official bookings could improve load factors, enable fleet expansion, and support new route development.
Beyond economics, the law aligns with broader national goals of self-reliance and industrial growth in strategic sectors.
Forward Outlook
Stakeholders across government offices and airline boardrooms are closely tracking developments. The proposal reflects a deliberate shift toward prioritizing indigenous enterprises in critical infrastructure like air transport.
As Nigeria expands its global connectivity, mandating internal support for its own airlines may prove transformative.
The bill represents more than regulation it’s a statement of confidence in homegrown capability and a step toward aviation sovereignty.
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