Nigeria has emerged as the country with the largest private jet fleet in Africa, despite the nation’s economic challenges. The announcement was made by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
The revelation came during the minister’s official visit to Bombardier Inc. in Montreal, Canada. The visit formed part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation sector through strategic partnerships with global aircraft manufacturers.
Beyond the impressive number of aircraft, the government is now pursuing another ambitious goal. It wants to establish a major aircraft maintenance and service centre in Nigeria. The move is expected to reduce the huge amount of foreign exchange spent on overseas aircraft maintenance while creating more skilled jobs for Nigerians.
According to available industry reports, the number of private jets has grown significantly from around 100 aircraft in 2021 to nearly 240 today. However, concerns have also been raised about illegal charter operations involving some privately owned aircraft.
Speaking after the meeting with Bombardier officials, Keyamo explained why establishing a maintenance facility has become a national priority.
“Our discussions covered a broad range of issues, especially the prospect of the company establishing a major service center in Nigeria. This will provide the much needed support for their aircraft within the country and the African continent as a whole.”
He further highlighted the financial impact of maintaining aircraft outside Nigeria.
“Nigeria officially has the highest number of private jets in Africa with nearly 240 presently operating within the country and so much foreign currency is repatriated weekly from the country for the maintenance of these aircraft.”
According to the minister, the proposed maintenance centre would provide support not only for aircraft operating in Nigeria but also across Africa. Moreover, it would strengthen local technical skills, encourage technology transfer and improve the country’s aviation services.
The engagement with Bombardier also focused on aircraft manufacturing, pilot training, engineering support, digital aviation systems and after-sales services.
Meanwhile, government officials believe the project could position Nigeria as a leading business aviation hub on the continent.
The Nigerian delegation included the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Capt. Chris Najomo, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Nigeria’s representative at the International Civil Aviation Organization, Engr. Mahmoud Sani Ben-Tukur, alongside other government officials and aviation stakeholders.
Reports suggest that nearly 70 percent of the aircraft currently operating in the country carry foreign registration. This has been linked to efforts by some operators to avoid certain taxes and regulatory charges.
However, the Federal Government has already taken steps to address the issue. A ministerial task force was recently established to investigate illegal charter operations involving privately owned aircraft. Likewise, discussions have continued between the Nigeria Customs Service and some operators over import duties and related charges.
The government believes that stronger regulation, modern infrastructure and partnerships with global manufacturers will improve confidence in Nigeria’s aviation industry. Therefore, the planned maintenance centre is seen as a major step toward reducing dependence on foreign facilities.
