Federal Government Moves to Mandate Public Officials to Use Nigerian Airlines for International Travel

Story: written by Uzuh Rita October 27,225

The Federal Government has announced plans to introduce legislation that will require Nigerian public officials to fly with local airlines on international routes. This proposed bill, known as the Fly Nigerian Act, is designed to boost the nation’s aviation sector by ensuring government travel supports indigenous carriers.

Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, disclosed the development during the inaugural direct Air Peace flight from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport held on Sunday. The event was attended by Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace.

Keyamo stated that the ministry will forward the bill to the National Assembly, expressing confidence that lawmakers will give full support. The proposed legislation stipulates that government officials must prioritize Nigerian airlines for foreign trips whenever such carriers operate the route in question. Only when no local airline services the destination will officials be permitted to book foreign carriers.

According to the minister, the initiative aligns with established global practices that protect national airlines. He cited the United States’ Fly America Act and India’s similar aviation protection laws as reference points.

The minister further emphasized that the bill will reinforce local carrier growth, enhance aviation industry confidence, and ensure Nigerian taxpayers’ funds contribute to domestic economic advancement rather than foreign commercial gains.