Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has issued a directive requiring foreign airlines to utilise the services of local caterers for on-board meals.
Gatekeepers News reports that the directive, conveyed in a letter signed by H.T. Ejibunu, the director overseeing the office of the permanent secretary, was addressed to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
According to the letter dated October 15, 2024, the ministry stated that the directive from Keyamo will be implemented from January 1.
“I am directed by the Honourable Minister of Aviation to convey to you his decision to mandate all out-bound flights from Nigeria, especially foreign airlines to patronize local caterers for on-board meals,” the ministry said.
“Consequently, you are hereby directed to convey the decision to all foreign airlines for strict compliance beginning from 1st of January, 2025.”
On May 21, Keyamo asked Qatar Airways to patronise local catering services on its return trips from Nigeria.
Keyamo, who made the proposal at the Future Aviation Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, said the initiative is consistent with the principles of reciprocity outlined in the bilateral air services agreement (BASA).
