Aircraft manufacturer Boeing is set to host a forum aimed at connecting Nigerian airline operators with international investors.
In a letter addressed to Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, dated October 24, 2024, Moore Ibekwe, the director of Boeing’s commercial sales, outlined the company’s plans to present selected Nigerian airlines to potential investors during the Airline Economics Conference, scheduled to take place from January 12 to 15, 2025, in Dublin, Ireland.
Boeing’s correspondence highlighted Keyamo’s earlier request to utilise the company’s connections with leasing firms to attract investment into Nigeria’s aviation sector. This request stemmed from a meeting held on August 28, where Keyamo, accompanied by representatives from the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), met with Boeing executives in Seattle, Washington.
During this meeting, the Nigerian government and Boeing formalised their collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to harness Boeing’s extensive network of financiers and lessors, facilitating the acquisition of modern aircraft.
In his update to Keyamo, Ibekwe mentioned that Boeing is currently in discussions with lessors to finalise meeting dates. He emphasised the importance of Nigerian airlines participating seriously in these discussions, particularly those looking to lease aircraft within the next 24 months.
The letter stated, “Following your visit to our facilities in the United States, the press coverage about Nigerian Aviation has been remarkably positive like never before seen, therefore we need to capitalize on the positive momentum in the spirit of the MoU.
The letter further explained, “During your visit, one of the follow-up items was to organize a forum during the Airline Economics whereby we can leverage our relationships with leasing companies’ leadership for you to meet and update them personally on the strides that the Federal Government of Nigeria is undertaking to improve the aviation industry.
“As we all agreed, in the presence of our Senior Vice President of Sales, it will be best if they heard from you firsthand.
“On our side, we are coordinating the efforts with lessors to firm up dates and timing for these meetings. We would like to keep the delegation small and focused on Nigerian airlines seriously considering leasing of aircraft in the next 24 months.”
The letter emphasised the necessity for airlines to be adequately prepared to showcase genuine business opportunities that will maintain the interest of lessors.
Frances Ibiefo
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