Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing aviation safety and security through a new partnership with the Turkish government. The move follows a high-level meeting in Abuja between Keyamo and the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, aimed at deepening bilateral relations in the aviation and aerospace sectors.
During the meeting, both parties discussed strategies to bolster aviation security systems, technology transfer, and improve air transport connectivity between Nigeria and Türkiye. Ambassador Poroy, who led a delegation of Turkish officials and representatives from Turkish Airlines, said Türkiye was eager to strengthen its partnership with Nigeria, particularly in areas of aviation safety infrastructure, training, and logistics support.
He praised Keyamo’s leadership in repositioning the aviation industry and assured that Türkiye would work closely with Nigeria to advance mutual interests in the sector. Poroy also proposed increased flight frequencies for Turkish Airlines’ operations in Nigeria, citing growing passenger demand and economic opportunities between both countries.
Currently, Turkish Airlines operates 12 weekly flights to Nigeria — five to Abuja and seven to Lagos. The ambassador noted that increasing flight frequencies would facilitate trade and tourism while boosting Nigeria’s status as a regional aviation hub. He further highlighted Türkiye’s technological expertise in aviation systems and expressed readiness to assist Nigeria in modernising its airspace surveillance and safety frameworks.
Keyamo, in his remarks, welcomed the proposal and commended Türkiye for its consistent engagement with Nigeria’s aviation industry. He acknowledged Turkish Airlines as one of the most reliable international carriers operating in the country and pledged continued government support for foreign investors contributing to Nigeria’s aviation growth.
The minister also expressed interest in adopting advanced aviation technology from Türkiye to improve air traffic management and security operations across Nigerian airports. “We are determined to ensure that Nigeria’s aviation sector attains global standards in safety, efficiency, and connectivity,” Keyamo said, adding that technology transfer and collaboration with credible international partners are vital to achieving that goal.
He disclosed that the partnership discussions extended beyond flight operations to include cooperation on aviation security equipment, radar systems, and training for aviation personnel. Keyamo also accepted an invitation to visit Türkiye in early 2026 to explore collaborative projects in aviation infrastructure and capacity building.
Industry observers say the partnership could mark a turning point for Nigeria’s aviation industry, which has long struggled with challenges such as outdated surveillance systems, insufficient training, and infrastructural gaps. The introduction of modern Turkish technology, including early warning and airspace monitoring systems, is expected to enhance Nigeria’s ability to secure its skies and improve safety for both domestic and international flights.
Analysts further note that the partnership aligns with the Tinubu administration’s commitment to transforming the aviation sector into a key driver of economic growth. Aviation experts believe that improved air connectivity between Nigeria and Türkiye will strengthen business ties, attract foreign investment, and create more job opportunities in the country.
A senior aviation analyst, Captain Dapo Olumide, said collaboration with technologically advanced nations such as Türkiye will help Nigeria build a safer and more competitive aviation sector. “Nigeria has the potential to become a regional aviation hub, but that will only be achieved through partnerships that bring in expertise, technology, and consistent policy support,” he stated.
Similarly, industry stakeholders have urged the Federal Government to leverage the Turkish partnership to enhance aviation training institutions and upgrade airport facilities. They argue that sustained collaboration with global aviation leaders will also improve Nigeria’s compliance with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
Meanwhile, Turkish officials reiterated their country’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in areas beyond civil aviation. Ambassador Poroy noted that Türkiye also aims to share expertise in aerospace development, air navigation technology, and aviation security infrastructure, adding that such collaboration would benefit both nations.
As the discussions progress, both countries are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding outlining specific areas of cooperation, including technology exchange, safety equipment supply, and personnel training. Turkish companies are also expected to play a role in future aviation infrastructure projects in Nigeria.
The Nigerian aviation sector has been undergoing reforms to attract foreign investment and enhance efficiency. Since assuming office, Minister Keyamo has prioritised international partnerships and modernisation of the nation’s airports to meet global best practices. His efforts have been praised by stakeholders who see the latest collaboration with Türkiye as a step toward achieving long-term sustainability and safety in air transport.
Observers say that with the increasing movement of people and goods between Nigeria and Türkiye, a stronger aviation partnership will not only promote trade but also deepen diplomatic and cultural relations. It is anticipated that the bilateral cooperation will pave the way for broader collaboration in aerospace technology, logistics, and defence-related aviation systems.
In conclusion, the alignment between Nigeria’s aviation ministry and the Turkish government represents a major step toward strengthening aviation security, improving air connectivity, and ensuring Nigeria’s aviation industry meets international safety benchmarks. The partnership underscores the growing recognition of Nigeria’s strategic role in African aviation and the global efforts to enhance regional cooperation for safer skies and sustainable air transport growth.
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