Nigerian Taste Takes Flight: Keyamo Directs Foreign Airlines to Use Local Caterers

Keyamo Directs Foreign Airlines to Use Nigerian Caterers

Keyamo's mandate aims to promote local content and prevent capital flight...

Nigeria's Minister of Aviation, Keyamo, orders foreign airlines to use local caterers for onboard meals, promoting homegrown businesses.

Nigeria's Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has issued a directive requiring all foreign airlines to source their onboard meals from local Nigerian caterers. This new regulation is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

The directive was outlined in a letter dated October 15, 2024, signed by H.T. Ejibunu, Director overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Aviation in Abuja. The letter was addressed to the Acting Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), emphasizing the importance of compliance from all foreign airlines operating in Nigeria.

Keyamo's mandate aims to promote local content and prevent capital flight, potentially creating jobs for Nigerians in the aviation catering sector. While some critics question the feasibility of this policy, others see it as a positive step towards supporting local businesses.

“I am directed by the Honourable Minister of Aviation to convey to you his decision to mandate all outbound flights from Nigeria, especially foreign airlines to patronize local caterers for on-board meals,” the letter read.

“Consequently, you are hereby directed to convey the decision to all foreign airlines for strict compliance beginning from 1st of January, 2025.”

Minister Festus Keyamo took a bold stance in September 2024, issuing a 24-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to address the long-standing issue of unresolved air ticket refunds. Specifically, Keyamo targeted airlines that had recently suspended operations, leaving passengers struggling to reclaim their funds.

This directive was delivered at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos during the launch of the NCAA Consumer Protection Portal. This innovative platform empowers air travelers to lodge complaints in real-time, ensuring their voices are heard and concerns addressed promptly.

Keyamo expressed his disappointment and frustration over the difficulties faced by passengers who had booked flights with these airlines. He acknowledged the ongoing struggles of these individuals to reclaim their funds, emphasizing the need for swift action.

Highlights:

24-hour Ultimatum: Minister Festus Keyamo issued an ultimatum to the NCAA to resolve unresolved air ticket refunds within 24 hours.

Airlines Affected: Airlines that had recently suspended operations were specifically targeted.

NCAA Consumer Protection Portal: A platform launched to allow air travelers to lodge complaints in real-time.

Keyamo's Concerns: Minister Keyamo expressed disappointment over passengers' struggles to reclaim their funds.