In an affirmation of the Nigerian government’s initiatives aimed at improving the business environment, two prominent airlines, Air Peace and Azman Air, have publicly commended the recent efforts to enhance operational conditions within the aviation industry. Following a meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja on Tuesday, the leaders of these airlines expressed optimism for continued governmental support.
Allen Onyema, the Chairman of Air Peace, and Abdulmunaf Yunusa Sarina, the Founder of Azman Air, shared their insights with the media after their discussions with the Vice-President on Tuesday. Both airlines are celebrating their tenth anniversaries this year, marking a decade of service in Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
Onyema articulated the collective sentiment of the airline operators, reflecting on the various challenges that have beset the aviation industry, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that while the airline sector globally has faced numerous difficulties—including supply chain disruptions—he has observed a commendable responsiveness from the Nigerian government. According to him, the current Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, has been instrumental in addressing these issues.
He stated, “Aviation all over the world has been a turbulent arena since after the COVID because of the supply chain issues. This is not peculiar to Nigeria but the Nigerian government is listening to us and making sure the ease of doing business in the sector is back.”
In his remarks, Onyema elaborated on the supportive environment fostered by the Vice-President. He remarked, “I have just had a session with the Vice President and everything he said is that the government is actually promoting the ease of doing business.” This commitment to fostering a more favorable business climate is crucial for airline operators striving to navigate a post-pandemic recovery landscape.
Onyema continued to highlight the positive impact of the current aviation leadership, praising Minister Keyamo for his proactive stance. “You can see the wonderful job Festus Keyamo is doing in that end. He is performing wonders there so we are happy,” he added. His words reflect a broader sentiment within the aviation sector, where many stakeholders have noted a renewed focus on facilitating smoother operations.
The airlines’ leaders also took the opportunity to express their gratitude towards the government for its willingness to listen to their concerns. “We are here to also thank the government because they have been giving us listening ears and we want more of that,” Onyema said. He emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue and further action, particularly concerning the various charges that airline operators face.
As the airline industry grapples with the residual effects of the pandemic, support from the government is seen as vital. The operators expressed a strong desire for continued collaboration, urging for the removal of numerous regulatory and financial burdens that hinder their operations. “We have every confidence that the government will do something about it,” Onyema concluded, signaling a hopeful outlook for the future of aviation in Nigeria.
The commitment of the Nigerian government to enhancing the business environment, especially in the aviation sector, is not only beneficial for airline operators but also crucial for the overall economy. A thriving aviation industry can facilitate increased travel, boost tourism, and create job opportunities, all of which contribute to national development.
In this context, the recognition from major players like Air Peace and Azman Air underscores the importance of government-industry partnerships in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities. As the aviation sector continues to recover, the collaborative efforts between airline operators and the government will be pivotal in fostering a resilient and dynamic aviation landscape in Nigeria.
The ongoing dialogues and initiatives, as highlighted in this meeting with Vice-President Shettima, reflect a shared vision for the future, one where the challenges faced by the aviation sector are met with actionable solutions and sustained support. With the right measures in place, there is potential for a robust aviation industry that can thrive in both the local and global arenas.
