In a move to gradually solve challenges facing the aviation sector, particularly the aircraft shortage, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with one of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, Boeing.

This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister, Tunde Moshood, on Thursday.

Moshood noted that the agreement includes provisions of comprehensive training in airline operations and business models aimed at improving the business practices and operational efficiency of Nigerian airlines.

The minister and the manufacturing company’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, Anbessie Yitbarek, signed the MoU before Nigerian aviation stakeholders, including executives from Nigerian airlines, the top management team of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and representatives from the Airline Operators of Nigeria among others.

The key highlight of the agreement is the facilitation of Aircraft Acquisition through this, Boeing will leverage its extensive network of financiers and lessors to help Nigerian airlines acquire newer generation Boeing aircraft, in turn modernizing their fleets.

Boeing is also expected to provide enhanced technical support to assist airlines in the introduction of new or used Boeing aircraft, ensuring smooth integration into existing operations.

Boeing will grant Nigerian airlines access to its vast repository of maintenance documents, engineering drawings, parts purchasing, and flight operations documents, streamlining maintenance practices and reducing operational downtimes.

“Boeing will provide on-site Field Services Representation in Nigeria or nearby locations, offering immediate support to airlines as they navigate operational challenges.

“A leadership-development training program will be implemented to strengthen the leadership pipeline within Nigerian airlines, ensuring sustained growth and excellence.

“Boeing will collaborate with Nigerian airlines on in-flight operations, maintenance, and engineering to enhance safety and operational efficiency across the board.

“In partnership with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Boeing will work closely with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and regional regulators to bolster safety oversight within the region,” Moshood said.

The minister said the importance of the MoU in supporting the growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector.

“This partnership with Boeing represents a significant milestone in our efforts to modernize and enhance the capabilities of Nigerian airlines. The benefits of this MoU will be far-reaching, not only in improving the operational efficiency of our airlines but also in ensuring the safety and reliability of air travel in Nigeria,” he said.

The Vice President of Boeing also said, “We are excited to work closely with Nigeria’s aviation stakeholders to deliver tailored solutions that will help Nigerian airlines thrive in the competitive global aviation landscape. This MoU underscores our commitment to supporting the growth and development of aviation in Africa.”