The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has inaugurated a cutting-edge maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility by XEJet, with plans for an aircraft manufacturing company also in the pipeline.
Speaking at the launch of XEJet’s flight support and engineering hub in Abuja on Monday, Keyamo said, “Very soon, we will return here for the groundbreaking ceremony of an aircraft manufacturing company.”
The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s aviation development strategy. Keyamo stated, “This reflects our administration’s commitment to supporting local operators. Attracting MROs has been a priority, and XEJet’s project is a vital milestone.”
He assured that the government would provide support through partnerships with local banks and top construction firms. “Our technical teams and regulatory bodies will ensure the facility meets world-class standards,” he said.
Keyamo expressed optimism that the hub would draw clients from across West Africa, given Nigeria’s population, economy, and aviation traffic. “This is only the beginning. Nigeria has the capacity to sustain such ambitious initiatives,” he concluded.
XEJet’s CEO, Emmanuel Iza, described the hub as more than an MRO, positioning Nigeria on the global aviation map. “The vision is to contribute to aircraft manufacturing, even if limited to components like wings, landing gear, or tyres,” he said, highlighting Nigeria’s talent and potential with adequate facilities.
The $5 million initial phase includes groundworks, taxiways, and aprons, with subsequent investments planned for structural development.
The facility will feature a private terminal for business aviation with a conference centre, pilot accommodations, crew quarters, and an exclusive access route from Bill Clinton Way for VIP passengers.
“This engineering centre aims to establish Nigeria as a player in Original Equipment Manufacturing. If we cannot produce a full aircraft like the Airbus A380, we should at least manufacture its components,” Iza added.
XEJet currently employs nearly 300 people, and the new hub is expected to quadruple its workforce.