Secure Skies Will Boost Tourism, GDP – Keyamo

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has restated the federal government’s commitment to securing the country’s airspace, emphasizing that improved aviation safety and security are key to boosting tourism and expanding the national economy. Speaking during a ministerial meeting in Abuja, Keyamo explained that safer skies would encourage greater international and domestic travel, leading to increased revenue across several sectors.

According to the minister, a secure and efficient aviation system does more than just protect passengers and airline infrastructure—it acts as a catalyst for national growth. “When people feel safe traveling to and within Nigeria, tourism will flourish. This means more people spending money in hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, and transportation services. That directly impacts job creation and increases GDP,” he said.

Keyamo stressed that tourism is one of the fastest-growing economic sectors globally, and Nigeria must take concrete steps to tap into this opportunity. He noted that countries with strong tourism industries often have robust aviation systems, with world-class airport facilities and reliable safety protocols. For Nigeria to compete on a global level, the aviation sector must be elevated to meet international standards.

To that end, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development is implementing a multi-pronged approach. A core part of the plan is investing in aviation technology. Keyamo revealed that the federal government has already started upgrading surveillance systems and installing modern air traffic control equipment across major airports. These enhancements, he said, will drastically reduce delays, improve flight management, and boost public confidence in air travel.

The ministry is also working on introducing automated security checks, biometric verification systems, and advanced baggage screening technologies. These tools, already in use in many countries, not only enhance safety but also improve the passenger experience by reducing wait times and streamlining airport operations.

Another vital aspect of the reform effort is staff training. The federal government is partnering with international aviation agencies to provide capacity-building programs for Nigerian aviation professionals, including air traffic controllers, security personnel, and airport management staff. The goal is to ensure that the workforce is well-equipped to handle modern aviation demands while maintaining high safety standards.

Keyamo also emphasized the importance of collaboration across government ministries. In a recent development, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has partnered with the Ministry of Tourism to develop a joint framework that supports tourism through aviation. This includes simplifying visa processes, expanding flight routes to popular tourist destinations, and improving airport aesthetics and hospitality services.

“The aviation sector cannot work in isolation. It must be aligned with tourism, immigration, infrastructure, and even culture. When we coordinate our efforts, we can build a national brand that attracts investors and tourists alike,” Keyamo said.

He noted that Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage, natural attractions, and large population present a unique opportunity for the country to position itself as a leading destination in Africa. But without a safe and reliable aviation network, he said, these assets will remain underutilized.

To further boost investor confidence, the government is also creating an enabling environment for private sector participation. The minister assured stakeholders that new policies would protect investments while encouraging innovation. Already, several private investors are exploring partnerships in airport development, aircraft maintenance facilities, and aviation training centers.

Keyamo underscored that the economic benefits of a vibrant aviation industry go beyond tourism. A secure and efficient airspace also facilitates trade, particularly in high-value and time-sensitive goods. He highlighted the potential of cargo services in agricultural exports, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, saying that improved air transport logistics could help Nigerian producers access new markets faster and more reliably.

Moreover, the aviation sector serves as a major employment generator. From airlines to airport operations, logistics, security, catering, and hospitality, thousands of Nigerians earn a living through aviation-related jobs. By expanding and modernizing the sector, more employment opportunities can be created, particularly for the country’s large youth population.

While acknowledging the challenges that still exist—such as high operational costs, currency fluctuations, and regulatory bottlenecks—Keyamo said the government remains focused on delivering a long-term vision for the industry. “We are laying the foundation for an aviation sector that is safe, efficient, and globally respected. The benefits will touch every part of the economy,” he said.

In closing, the minister called on all stakeholders—regulators, operators, investors, and the public—to support the government’s efforts. He urged Nigerians to see aviation not just as a means of transportation, but as a vital component of national development. “When we build safer skies, we open up our country to the world. And when the world comes in, our economy grows.”

 

The government’s aviation strategy, anchored in security, modernization, and collaboration, signals a new era for Nigerian air travel. With consistent implementation and broad support, experts believe it could redefine the nation’s economic outlook through expanded tourism, trade, and employment.