Nigerian carriers are seeking to ease the process of fleet modernisation as part of an agreement reached between Boeing and the Nigerian aviation ministry.
The agreement – in the form of a memorandum of understanding – was signed in Seattle on 28 August.
Nigerian aviation minister Festus Keyamo says the pact will “leverage” Boeing’s network of lessors and financiers and “better position” the country’s carriers to acquire new-generation aircraft from the manufacturer.
It will also provide enhanced technical support – including access to maintenance, engineering and flight operations information – to support introduction of Boeing aircraft, as well as training in airline operations.
Keyamo also says the agreement will cover collaboration in several other related aspects, including safety oversight, airport capabilities, and operational efficiency.
“The support to be provided through this agreement will help our local operators grow and succeed,” he adds.
Boeing says the co-operation pact will “strengthen” the Nigerian aviation sector. It adds that it will provide planning workshops, training, technical support and assessments to airlines.
“This agreement is an important step in establishing a sustainable civil aviation ecosystem in Nigeria as there is shared interest and value in driving innovation and progress,” says Boeing’s vice-president of commercial sales for Africa, Anbessie Yitbarek.
According to Boeing’s latest commercial outlook, the African market will require 1,170 aircraft deliveries over the next 20 years.
