“And air cargo trade, according to the International Air Transport Association, IATA, attracts about $6 trillion annually.
“And we’re missing you know. Within that sector, we were missing in many routes around the world and we have achieved that,” he said.
He added that the issues surrounding the second runway at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport were addressed within just two weeks of his appointment.
Keyamo promised enhanced airport capacity and operational efficiency.
Airlines’ trapped funds
Speaking further on his achievements, Keyamo confirmed that all trapped funds of foreign airlines have been cleared.
“We all know this issue was the issue of trapped funds of the international airlines. Their funds were trapped here because of a lack of liquidity on the part of Nigeria because of so many subsidies we pay with our foreign earnings.
“Also, foreign airlines were threatening to stop operating in Nigeria. Now, I must give credit to all those in the financial sector for this. We had to work closely with the CBN and the Minister of Finance.
“We had to work closely with all of the ministers in the financial sector. And by our persistence, we are happy to announce that we have cleared all the trapped funds.”
He added that the current administration under his leadership as Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister, efforts have been geared towards prioritising and assisting local airlines.
He disclosed that the move was to help the country take full advantage of its reciprocal right under the BASA agreement with various countries.
Keyamo added that the open sky operation with the United States has begun operation. He explained that Nigeria would begin to enjoy unrestricted flights to the US, deployment of any kind of aircraft on those routes, and multiple entry points.
