Minister of Aviation Unveils Advanced Maintenance Facility and Upcoming Aircraft Manufacturing Company
Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has launched a cutting-edge maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility led by XEJet. During the groundbreaking event for XEJet’s flight support and engineering hub in Abuja on Monday, Keyamo also revealed plans for the establishment of an aircraft manufacturing company in the near future.
“We will soon return for the groundbreaking ceremony of an aircraft manufacturing company,” Keyamo stated, emphasizing the initiative’s significance within the context of the Federal Government’s aviation development strategy.
Keyamo underscored that this facility aligns perfectly with the administration’s goal of fostering local operators in the aviation sector. He mentioned efforts to attract more MROs to Nigeria’s aviation landscape, calling XEJet’s initiative a considerable advancement in this direction.
The minister pointed out the government’s commitment to creating an environment conducive to such projects, which includes collaboration with local banks and the engagement of leading construction firms. “We will stand by you (XEJet) at every step, ensuring our technical teams and regulatory bodies confirm the world-class quality of this facility,” he promised.
Keyamo expressed optimism that the new facility would draw users from the entire West African region, capitalizing on Nigeria’s extensive population, robust economy, and high aviation traffic. “This is merely the start. Nigeria has the capacity to sustain and support ambitious initiatives like this one. We take pride in being part of it,” he concluded.
Emmanuel Iza, the Chief Executive Officer of XEJet, also spoke at the ceremony, describing the facility as far more than just a maintenance and repair center. He stated it aims to position Nigeria as a significant player in aviation innovation on a global scale. “Our vision is to establish Nigeria in the realm of aircraft manufacturing. Even if we don’t produce entire aircraft, we aspire to manufacture components such as wings, landing gears, and tires,” Iza explained, adding that Nigeria possesses the talent and capabilities necessary to realize these ambitions, provided the right conditions and facilities are available.
Iza shared that XEJet currently employs nearly 300 individuals, and the new facility could potentially triple or quadruple that number. He detailed the phased investment approach for the project, with an initial $5 million dedicated to groundwork, taxiways, and aprons, followed by an additional substantial investment for structural development.
The new hub will feature a dedicated terminal for business aviation, equipped with high-end amenities, including a conference center, accommodations for pilots, and crew quarters that comply with safety regulations. Moreover, a separate access road from Bill Clinton Way will provide exclusive entry for business aviation passengers.
“This facility is not just an MRO but an engineering center designed to position Nigeria among the Original Equipment Manufacturers,” Iza stated. “While we may not be able to manufacture an Airbus A380, we should at least produce components that contribute to making it,” he added.
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