Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development has challenged “so-called aviation experts” to a debate.
He made the call through his “X” handle while speaking on aircraft leasing as a factor that boosts local operators in the aviation industry.
“Aircraft leasing (in particular, dry leasing) is one factor that will help boost the business of local operators in our Airline industry. No airline company in the world or even any Government for that matter can afford to purchase its fleet of aircraft one hundred percent. The biggest airlines in the world depend on dry leasing in particular. One other factor, amongst others, is the establishment of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities within the country. We are currently wooing investors in this regard.” Keyamo noted.
Keyamo stated that, these so-called Aviation experts have failed to do anything over the years to help revive the industry, but are suddenly speaking like they hold a ‘magic wand’ to turn the industry around, when in fact they are speaking for some interests who think the Aviation industry in Nigeria is their birthright.
He added that, he is determined to go far and near to woo Aircraft Leasing Companies and Aircraft Manufacturers to come to Nigerians aid. Adding that there is no shame in doing so now since the country lacks capacity to produce her own aircraft or to purchase them.
He concluded by noting that as they continue to woo aircraft manufacturers to invest in Nigerian business, Nigerians should expect more videos of them introducing these manufacturers and their products.