BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, yesterday held high-level talks with major global aviation Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and a Saudi Arabian delegation at the second edition of the El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt.
The engagements were aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s relationship with major players in the global aviation industry and exploring opportunities to modernise the country’s aviation infrastructure.
The airshow, held in Cairo, Egypt, was presided over by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, who was accompanied by the President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides.
Keyamo said discussions with the OEMs focused largely on practical areas of cooperation, particularly the upgrading of aviation infrastructure across Nigeria.
“The occasion afforded us the opportunity to meet major OEMs from around the world and engage in discussions regarding upgrading our aviation infrastructure across the country,” he said.
“These engagements are important as we continue to position Nigeria’s aviation industry for greater efficiency, safety, competitiveness and sustainable growth.”
The minister also met with members of the Saudi Arabian delegation to discuss early preparations for the 2027 Hajj operations.
The discussions focused on air transportation and other arrangements required to ensure the smooth movement of Nigerian pilgrims during the next Hajj season.
Keyamo stressed the need to begin preparations early to improve planning and coordination of the aviation component of the pilgrimage.
He said early engagement with relevant stakeholders would help ensure more efficient operations and a smoother experience for Nigerian pilgrims.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
