Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, has ignited a debate on aviation safety and expertise in the country. During a recent appearance on Channels Television, he addressed concerns surrounding the suspension of Dana Air’s operations.
Keyamo emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety, stating his commitment to preventing “flying coffins” from jeopardizing passenger lives. He revealed a past audit highlighting issues with Dana Air’s fleet, prompting a reevaluation before allowing continued operations.
The Minister acknowledged public criticisms but expressed frustration with self-proclaimed aviation experts. “Everyone seems to be an expert,” he remarked, including those “who have sold puff puff at the airport.” He challenged these individuals to engage in a televised debate to discuss their ideas for improving the aviation sector.
This isn’t the first time Keyamo has welcomed open discourse. His previous visit to Airbus headquarters in France sparked accusations of bias towards the aircraft manufacturer. He countered these claims, reiterating the government’s goal of facilitating aircraft leasing for Nigerian airlines. Keyamo further criticized unnamed “experts” who haven’t actively contributed to the industry’s advancement.
Addressing the issue of corruption within the aviation sector, Keyamo acknowledged “deep complicity” and vowed to implement a “cleansing process.” He condemned regulatory officials who prioritize personal gain over passenger safety by falsifying reports and bypassing regulations. The current wave of criticism, according to Keyamo, represents a resistance to these efforts to dismantle a corrupt system.
Keyamo’s stance has ignited a conversation about balancing transparency with addressing safety concerns. While some appreciate his openness to debate, others question his qualifications to tackle deeply entrenched problems. Only time will tell if his approach will lead to a safer and more transparent aviation sector in Nigeria.
