The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to establish an aircraft manufacturing firm as part of its strategy to bolster the nation’s aviation sector.
Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, made this known during the launch of XeJet’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility and flight support center in Abuja.
Keyamo explained that the initiative aligns with the government’s goal to empower local operators and position Nigeria as a key player in the global aviation industry.
The newly unveiled MRO facility, which is a partnership between XeJet and indigenous banks, is expected to transform Nigeria into a hub for aviation services in the West African region.
Keyamo said: “Since we came to office, we’ve been focused on attracting MRO facilities to our aviation ecosystem, just as they exist in other parts of the world.
“We’ve searched far and wide for investors, but now we see that what we were looking for elsewhere is right here at home. This collaboration between an indigenous operator and local banks is a dream come true.”
Emphasising the project’s significance, the minister noted the inclusion of additional facilities, such as a training centre, which he described as “a huge achievement.”
Keyamo added: “This development will not only serve Nigeria but will attract users from across the West African sub-region. That’s the dream—to make this facility a regional center for excellence.”
Emmanuel Iza, Chief Executive Officer of XeJet, shared insights into the broader vision for the aviation sector. He revealed plans to contribute to aircraft manufacturing in Nigeria, focusing on components such as wings, landing gears, and tires.
“The vision is ambitious. Nigeria has the talent and ability; we just need the enabling environment and facilities to make it happen,” Iza stated.
The multi-million-dollar project is expected to generate significant employment opportunities. Iza disclosed that XeJet currently employs about 300 people, with plans to quadruple the workforce as the facility becomes operational.
The first phase, involving site preparation and the construction of a taxiway, is estimated to cost $5 million, with an equal amount allocated for the main structure.
