Keyamo proposes ‘Fly Nigerian Act’ to mandate officials to use Local Airlines for International travel

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has proposed a new law that would require government officials to patronise Nigerian airlines when travelling abroad.

Keyamo made the proposal on Sunday during the ceremonial send-off of Air Peace’s inaugural direct flight from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport.

The event, held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, was attended by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, and the Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema.

During his remarks, the minister announced plans to introduce a bill titled the Fly Nigerian Act, aimed at promoting the use of local carriers on international routes.

“We are going to bring the bill on the Fly Nigerian Air to him (Benjamin Kalu). He will pass it,” Keyamo said.

He explained that the proposed legislation would make it compulsory for all government officials travelling overseas to use Nigerian airlines operating on their route, except where no local carrier offers the service.

“The Fly Nigerian Air is to ensure that every government official travelling abroad patronises our local airlines first, if they are flying that route,” he added.

Keyamo noted that the initiative aligns with international practice, citing similar policies in countries such as the United States and India.

“We have the Fly American Act, the Fly India Act, and others around the world. Nigeria must not be left behind. It’s time we promoted our own,” he said.

The minister further outlined how the law would function in practice:

“If a government official, member of the House of Representatives, senator, minister, director-general, or any public servant is travelling abroad, the first question should be: is there a Nigerian airline flying that route? If yes, you must buy that ticket first — unless there isn’t a Nigerian carrier serving that route.”

Keyamo reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to ensuring the bill is presented and passed into law, stressing that it would strengthen Nigeria’s aviation industry and boost national pride.