On Monday, Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, met with representatives from Embraer, a prominent global aircraft manufacturer and lessor, in Brazil.
Gatekeepers News reports that the purpose of the meeting was to seek support for Nigerian airlines and explore opportunities for collaboration.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by Tunde Moshood, the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Keyamo’s visit was also aimed at establishing a direct air route between Nigeria and South America.
Keyamo arrived in Brazil late Monday, accompanied by Chris Najomo, the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), along with representatives from local airline operators. The visit included a significant meeting at Embraer’s headquarters located in São José dos Campos, São Paulo state, which marked a key highlight of the trip.
“Embraer, a renowned leader in regional aircraft production, is collaborating with the Nigerian delegation to explore avenues for strengthening Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem through enhanced access to modern aircraft, favourable leasing options, and a network of credible financiers,” the statement said.
Speaking after the meeting, Keyamo said the talks with the aircraft manufacturer focused on ways they could contribute to the development of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“We had extensive discussions with Embraer on how they can support our aviation sector with their vast network of lessors and financial institutions,” the minister was quoted as saying.
“The goal is to empower Nigerian operators with the tools and partnerships necessary for growth and expansion.”
Moshood said the working visit will continue today in Brasilia, where Keyamo is scheduled to meet with his Brazilian counterpart, Sílvio Costa Filho, the minister of ports and airports.
