On a recent interview aired on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, addressed concerns regarding the operation of private airstrips owned by some privileged Nigerians. His comments came in response to calls from the House of Representatives for revocation of licenses granted to certain individuals and organizations due to security considerations. The Minister emphasized that the assertion that private planes could take off or land from individual airstrips without appropriate regulatory clearance is inaccurate. This clarification is significant given the overarching discourse about air travel regulations and security concerns in Nigeria.
Keyamo firmly stated that any aircraft, including military ones, must secure necessary clearance from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency before leaving or entering the country. He reassured the public that all flights departing from or arriving at a private airstrip must first land at an international airport, where they will be subject to thorough customs, immigration, and security checks. This process ensures regulatory compliance and emphasizes the government’s role in maintaining aviation safety and security.
He further explained that the restriction mentioned aligns with standard operational procedures in aviation. Keyamo voiced that fears regarding unregulated use of airstrips are misplaced, as there are established protocols which mandate that even private planes must adhere to stringent regulations. This includes both departing and arriving flights, establishing a clear framework within which private aviation must operate. His comments aimed to dispel rumors of unrestricted airstrip activity and reassure stakeholders of the existing oversight mechanisms.
In response to questions regarding specific airstrips, Keyamo confirmed that prominent figures, such as Bishop David Oyedepo, comply with all necessary aviation protocols. This indicates that even well-known private entities operating airstrips are not exempt from regulatory scrutiny, reinforcing the message that all flights in and out of Nigeria are monitored by the relevant authorities. His acknowledgment of the due processes followed by these airstrips serves to enhance public trust in the aviation regulatory framework.
The Minister also provided insights into the current status of airstrips within the country. He reported that Nigeria operates more than 40 airstrips, in addition to 23 federal airports and around nine state airports. This figure underscores the extent of Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, which plays a crucial role in facilitating air travel for both commercial and private purposes. By sharing these statistics, Keyamo seeks to illustrate the breadth of regulation and oversight in a country where the aviation sector is pivotal to economic growth and connectivity.
Ultimately, Keyamo’s assertions not only clarify the operational realities surrounding private air travel in Nigeria but also reinforce the government’s commitment to maintaining strict oversight of air operations. His remarks are likely to engender a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in aviation regulations while addressing public concerns regarding security. By providing transparency about the processes in place, Keyamo aims to allay fears and affirm the integrity of Nigeria’s aviation sector amid ongoing discussions about airstrip governance and safety protocols.
