The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has proposed a new law called the Fly Nigerian Act that would require all public officials traveling abroad on official government business to prioritize Nigerian-owned airlines on international routes. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo announced the bill during the launch ceremony of Air Peace’s inaugural direct flight from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport.
According to the Minister, the legislation mandates that if a Nigerian airline operates a route, government officials—ranging from ministers, legislators, directors-general, to other public servants—must purchase tickets on the Nigerian carrier for international travel. Only when no local airline serves a particular route can foreign carriers be employed.
The proposed bill aims to strengthen the domestic aviation sector, reduce capital flight, create jobs, and boost Nigeria’s economy in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Keyamo highlighted that similar laws exist in other countries, such as the Fly America Act in the US and the Fly India Act, which prioritize national airlines for governmental travel.
The Fly Nigerian Act is set to be presented soon to the National Assembly for approval, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to promoting and protecting its local aviation industry and showcasing national pride on a global scale.
