The federal government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with an aircraft manufacturer, Boeing to boost the nation’s aviation sector.

Disclosing this in a statement on Thursday, Tunde Moshood, the Special Assistant on Media and Communications to Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the move would facilitate the acquisition of aircraft.

Moshood also stated that it would catalyse improvements in Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and operational standards.

The statement reads: “The signing ceremony took place yesterday in Seattle, Washington, USA, in the presence of key Nigerian aviation stakeholders, including executives from major Nigerian airlines, top management team of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, and representatives from the Airline Operators of Nigeria, AON.

“The MoU was signed by the Minister and Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, and marks a significant step forward in enhancing the operational efficiency and safety of Nigerian airlines while positioning them for growth in the global aviation market.

“The key highlights of the MoU include facilitation of aircraft acquisition: Boeing will leverage its extensive network of financiers and lessors to help Nigerian airlines acquire newer generation Boeing aircraft, thus modernizing their fleets.

“Enhanced Technical Support: Boeing will provide enhanced technical support to assist airlines in the introduction of new or used Boeing aircraft, ensuring smooth integration into existing operations.

“Training and Development: The agreement includes provisions for comprehensive training in airline operations and business models, aimed at improving the business practices and operational efficiency of Nigerian airlines.

“Maintenance and Engineering Support: 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.

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

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

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

“Regulatory Support: In partnership with the 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.

“Airport and MRO Development: Boeing’s Airports Engineering team will provide consultation to open or expand airport capabilities across Nigeria and offer advisory services on the development of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul, MRO, facilities.” (The Nation)

•The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo signs a MoU with Boeing in Seattle, Washington, USA on August 28, 2024.

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