Airport Reporters

Emirates, Nigeria sign MoU to Stimulate Inbound Tourism Emirates and Nigerian Ministry of Art Culture Tourism and the Creative Economy have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the 2025 Arabian Travel Market, to boost international visitors to Nigeria. The partnership underscores the airline’s commitment to the market through attracting visitors from across its global network of more than 140 passenger destinations, as Nigeria’s tourism roadmap aims to make the country a major holiday destination in Africa.  Under the MoU, Emirates will help to promote inbound tourism to Nigeria from key markets on its network, encouraging travellers to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse natural beauty, from sunlit coastlines to vibrant wetlands. Both partners will also develop programmes for trade partners, hoteliers and tour operators, to showcase the Heartbeat of Africa as well as exploring incentives, familiarisation trips and other marketing initiatives. ...

 NiMet, ACReSAL To Partner On Digital Climate Data Delivery To Farmers  The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, are to partner in developing a customized Digital Precision Agricultural Extension (DPAE) platform for smallholder farmers in northern Nigeria.  While briefing the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike at a meeting held at NiMet’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, 29th April 2025, Mukhtar Y. Tanko, the National Project Coordinator of ACReSAL said that  the ACReSAL Project recognizes NiMet as an important stakeholder in the development, deployment, and sustainability of the DPAE.  He highlighted that the objectives of Sub-Component B2 of the Project are to support farmers at the household level to optimize climate-smart rainfed agriculture practices. “Achieving this requires utilizing weather data to optimize farm management, leadin...

Onyema rallies stakeholders on aviation security  Efforts to improve security in the aviation industry is fast gaining traction.  To achieve this, a coalition of industry players, regulators and other professionals are echoing their voices on the steps needed to put security on the burner.  At the high-level Symposium on the Fundamentality of Aviation Security in Achieving the Safe-Skies Goal held on April 29, 2025, the air was thick with urgency and resolve.  According to a statement by Head, Corporate Communications, Air Peace, Dr.Ejike Ndiulo,the  spotlight of the day fell on Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace Airline Limited, whose goodwill message served as both a sober reflection and a passionate call to action for Nigeria’s aviation stakeholders. Standing before a hall filled with regulators, operators, security experts, and aviation professionals, Dr. Onyema delivered remarks that cut to the heart of the industry’s most critical priority—safety. “It...

NIMET boss stresses need to integrate meteorological data into urban transformation  The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Prof. Charles Anosike, has said that increasing challenges of climate change and growing populations, make it imperative that  meteorological data should be integrated into urban transformation to ensure adequate preparedness for climate disasters.  Prof. Anosike was speaking at the Abuja City Environmental Sustainability Summit, which was held on Tuesday, 29th April 2025, organized by Comrade Yussuf Olatunji Kelani, the Special Assistant to the President on Climate Change Matters.  According to Professor Anosike, “The theme of the event (Sustainable Urban Transformation: Building a Resilient and Green Abuja), reminds us of our collective responsibility to reshape Abuja into resilient, eco-friendly spaces that safeguard the well-being of our future generations”.  He said that sustaina...

Air Peace empowers women in Umuerim  Umukparo , Mbala community in Abia State  As part of its corporate (CSR) social responsibility initiatives which rests on environment, social welfare, education, youth and women empowerment, Air Peace, West and Central Africa’s largest carrier, has empowered women in Umuerim Umukparo in Mbala community, Abia State. Air Peace visited the community and offered six return economy tickets to women to enable them travel by air to any part of Nigeria. This gesture is aimed at inspiring more women to experience air travel, encouraging interests in aviation-related careers such as pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and airline management. It was a powerful moment of inclusion and encouragement—proof that one person’s milestone can open doors for many. Speaking at the event, Head of Corporate Communications, Air Peace, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo underscored the airline’s commitment to gender inclusion and leadership. “Air Peace is here today in Mbala community to...

 Life Changing Lessons I Learnt Working For Otunba Dr. Mike Adenuga Jnr.  By Uche Nworah, Ph.D The story of my marketing communications and branding career will not be complete without situating the staggering influence of Otunba Dr. Michael Adenuga Jnr, GCON. It began in 2009 when I was invited for a job interview to meet with the Great Guru or Mr Chairman as he is fondly called. As a policy, Mr Chairman interviews everyone that intends to work within his Group or business empire. This is after the person must have gone through the early stages of the interview. Lesson number one here is that as a business leader, you must know your staff and trust your hunch when making recruitment decisions. CVs alone don’t tell the whole story. My CV had gotten the attention of one of Mr Chairman’s acclaimed global recruiters called Mr. Donny. My CV got to Mr Donny through a mutual family friend, Barrister Elvira Salleras. As in other things within the MA Group, speed is a big factor and s...

 Fifth Columnists Using Phantom NiMet Unions To Wage Ethnic War Against NiMet DG/CEO Anosike By Mathew Ajibola  The purported call by phantom ‘NiMet workers of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the Joint Action Congress (JAC)’ for the removal of the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Prof. Charles Anosike, has demonstrated once again the ethnic agenda by fifth columnists bent on making NiMet ungovernable for Prof. Anosike as the DG/CEO of the agency, with the hope of unseating him.  Since Prof. Anosike was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the DG/CEO of the agency in December 2023, he has faced many battles and challenges. All unresolved legacy issues he inherited were capitalized on by these faceless fifth columnists, who used the labour unions to threaten strike action, ultimately culminating in the recent strike action, which saw the Honourable Minister of Information, Festus Keyamo SAN, succe...

 ABIA 2027: Ukwa Ngwa Leader Disowns Call for Deputy Speaker’s Guber Involvement The attention of concerned stakeholders from the Ukwa la Ngwa nation has been drawn to an online publication by the Tribune on April 26, 2025, titled "Abia 2027: Reps Deputy Speaker, Kalu, urged to run for governorship position." The report, purportedly attributing the call to the Ukwa la Ngwa leadership, has been described as false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to deceive the public. Issuing a stern disclaimer at his Asokoro residence in Abuja on Monday, April 28, 2025, former Vice Presidential Candidate of the Young Progressive Party (YPP) and prominent APC stalwart, His Excellency Dr. Kassarachi Enyinna, disowned the publication, clarifying that no such mandate or endorsement was given by the Ukwa la Ngwa leadership. Dr. Enyinna, an investment banker, philanthropist and politician reaffirmed his commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-elec...

 5th Dronetecx examines the future of UAS in Nigeria   All is now set for the fifth edition of Drone Technology Conference and Exhibition (Dronetecx 2025) as over 300 participants have shown interest to attending the event which kicks off May 13 – 15, 2025. The conference which will discuss the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) future in the country is expected to have highly placed individuals from the office of the National Security Adviser, the Airforce, Industry players and end users  A statement by the coordinator, Mr Fortune Idu, revealed that all necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth outing.  According to Idu, NIGAV Expo Event centre, Murtala Muhammed International Airport Lagos, will host the 5th Dronetecx conference and will draw participants from both civilian and military personnel.  Idu, disclosed that DRONTECX 2025 will host 300 delegates who have shown interest in participating at the conference while exhibition stands were...

BASL  reiterates zero tolerance policy against violence at MMA 2 Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited ( BASL ), operators of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), has reiterated its unwavering zero tolerance policy against any form of violence within the terminal premises, particularly against personnel discharging their lawful duties. Its Head, Corporate Communications , Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, who disclosed this said on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at approximately 13: 18hrs, a disturbance broke out at the check-in counter of one of the airlines operating from MMA2.  The disruption , she said stemmed from passenger agitation over issues reportedly linked to a system error.  While efforts were being made to calm the situation and facilitate a smooth resolution, she said  an Aviation Security (AVSEC) officer on duty was physically assaulted by a male passenger. This regrettable incident, the  BASL  spokesperson said mirrors a similar occurrence in Dece...

  ValueJets Airlines  sets footprints into West African Coast  ......To begin Lagos / Banjul operations in May  Air connectivity within African countries is gaining more traction as a Nigerian carrier - ValueJets Airlines has concluded plans to begin direct flight operations into Banju, the Gambian capital. The new service scheduled for May 15, 2025 will offer air travelers more travel options for business , leisure and other activities. According to a statement by the airline, the Lagos /Banjul will boost  essential air link between two of West Africa’s most dynamic regions, providing greater access to  Gambia’s growing tourism industry and facilitating stronger economic ties between Nigeria and The Gambia. The two frequency  flight rotations, will originate from the new terminal  Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos into the international terminal in Banjul. This new route, experts say is  a milestone in ValueJet’s plans to ...

  Emirates rolls out an "Eggstravagant" Easter celebration  Celebrating the occasions of Easter and Orthodox Easter this month between the 18 and 21 April, Emirates will be serving traditional lamb and an array of chocolate desserts in the lounges.  There will also be hot cross buns and Easter bread onboard, sweet surprises for kids, and all the latest and greatest new family-friendly movies on ice. Emirates customers flying in every class to Auckland, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Europe, Ghana, Hong Kong, Mauritius, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand, UK and USA will enjoy a sumptuous selection of Easter treats onboard. Kids in all classes will receive a brightly coloured ‘Happy Easter’ biscuit shaped like an Easter egg. In the A380 Onboard Lounge, customers can relish traditional Easter simnel fruitcake with marzipan, as well as Easter themed cupcakes. Across Emirates’ global network of lounges between 18 and 21 April, customers will enjoy classic Easter fare ...

  Federal Government debunks report on concession of Enugu Airport  The Federal Government has debunked report suggesting that a lengthy term for the concession of Enugu International Airport. While urging the public to disregard such malicious, untrue and baseless information, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development stated that whilst it is true that the Federal Government is considering proposals for the concession of five major airports, no fixed duration has been established. Spokesperson of Minister of Aviation, Tunde Moshood in a statement that the process for the concession of the airport terminals is still on going. According to Festus Keyamo's media adviser , the government is still working around  the  proactive measure to ensure these vital facilities can meet and maintain international standards. He said  given the increasing financial demands of their operations, majority of  airports are presently running at a loss, propelling ...

  Federal Government debunks report on concession of Enugu Airport  The Federal Government has debunked report suggesting that a lengthy term for the concession of Enugu International Airport. While urging the public to disregard such malicious, untrue and baseless information, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development stated that whilst it is true that the Federal Government is considering proposals for the concession of five major airports, no fixed duration has been established. Spokesperson of Minister of Aviation, Tunde Moshood in a statement that the process for the concession of the airport terminals is still on going. According to Festus Keyamo's media adviser , the government is still working around  the  proactive measure to ensure these vital facilities can meet and maintain international standards. He said  given the increasing financial demands of their operations, majority of  airports are presently running at a loss, propelling ...

      NCAA, Lufthansa commit to aviation sustainability                                                                                                                                                                                                             The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), in collaboration with Lufthansa Airlines, has reaffirmed it's unwavering commitment to ensuring sustainability in the aviation sector. This firm commitment was made a...

  Federal Government temporarily closes Enugu Airport for emergency runway repairs Air Peace, Ibom Air, United Nigeria Airline announce diversion plans The Federal Government  has announced the temporary closure of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, Enugu State, for emergency runway repairs. Spokesperson of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Obiageli Orah discount send this in a statement on Saturday. According to Orah, the decision to close Enugu Airport came on the heels of a  sudden and significant rupture in the asphalt surface at a critical section of the runway. To fix the problem, the FAAN director said emergency repairs will be conducted on the affected portion of the runway from April 22nd to May 6th, 2025. She said :" In compliance with Nigerian civil aviation regulations, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has, therefore, closed the runway during this period. "As part of FAAN's commitment to passenger safety and the...

  SAHCO CHAIRMAN, COMPANY HONOURED  AT 14TH NIGAV AWARDS The Chairman of SIFAX Group, Barr. Dr. Taiwo Afolabi (CON), has been honoured with the prestigious Aviation Industry Investor’s Award at the 14th Nigeria Aviation (NIGAV) Awards and Ministerial Dinner. Additionally, Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC received the Aircraft Handling Service Achievement Award at the same high-profile industry event. The NIGAV Awards, recognized as Nigeria’s most prestigious air transport award, celebrate excellence in the aviation industry. According to Mr. Fortune Idu, Founder and Convener of the NIGAV Awards, the initiative aims to foster industry harmony, encourage healthy competition, and inspire safer and more sustainable air service delivery across the country. Mr. Idu lauded Dr. Taiwo Afolabi for his transformational investments in ground handling services and aviation Industry&Tourism, noting that his contributions have led to the establishment of one of the be...

 Air Peace Celebrates Gold Chinyere Ike .. First Woman To Travel by Air in Her Community In a deliberate attempt to humanize air travel and demonstrate the power of aviation to transform lives, Air Peace, Nigeria’s foremost airline and the largest carrier in West and Central Africa has brought to limelight the inspiring story of Gold Chinyere Ike, the first woman in Umuerim Umukparo in Mbala, Umunneochi LGA, Abia state to board an aeroplane.  Her maiden flight with Air Peace has since captivated hearts across social media, becoming a symbol of how access to air travel can inspire dreams and open doors. A graduate of Nursing from Abia State University and an entrepreneurial farmer, Chinyere captured hearts across Nigeria when she took to social media in late March 2025 to chronicle her very first flight experience.  Her heartfelt post, brimming with wonder and unfiltered awe, quickly went viral, drawing attention to her humble background and the profound significance of a ...

  Airbus shareholders approve all resolutions at 2025 AGM    Shareholders approved all resolutions proposed at Airbus SE’s (stock exchange symbol: AIR) 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 15 April in Amsterdam. Resolutions included the renewal of the Board mandate of Executive Member Guillaume Faury, who continues as Airbus Chief Executive Officer. The mandates of Non-Executive Members Catherine Guillouard and Irene Rummelhoff were also renewed. Dr. Doris Höpke was appointed as a Non-Executive Member, replacing Claudia Nemat whose Board mandate expired at the close of the AGM and did not seek re-election.  Dr. Höpke currently acts as an independent advisor and mediator and brings extensive experience of risk management, human resources, law and conflict resolution.  She is a member of the Supervisory Board of Mercedes-Benz and previously sat on the Board of Management of reinsurer Munich Re.  Airbus Board Members are subject to (re)appointment every y...

IATA launches information portal for live animals regulations  The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched LAR Verify, a digital portal to improve the welfare and safe transport of live animals by air. Using LAR Verify, airlines, shippers and freight forwarders can access accurate operator and destination-specific requirements as defined by the IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR).  The regulations have formed the basis for the worldwide transport of live animals by air for more than 50 years.  The new portal offers an automated compliance solution for live animal shipments, streamlining planning, booking, acceptance and handling. IATA data shows that there were close to 200,000 live animal shipments globally in 2024—up 11 percent  since 2019. “The volume of specialized cargo—live animals in particular—continues to grow. To manage this opportunity safely and efficiently, a single digital portal that provides access to relevant LAR regulations and f...

  Keyamo meets Barbados' Prime Minister  ..Targets Deeper Ties With The Caribbean Following the momentous signing of a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, made a strategic stopover in Barbados as part of his continued diplomatic mission to deepen air connectivity between Nigeria, South American and Caribbean regions. In a display of warm Caribbean hospitality and high-level diplomacy, the  Minister was personally received by the charismatic and globally celebrated Prime Minister of Barbados,  Mia Amor Mottley. The meeting between the two distinguished leaders underscored a shared commitment to building stronger bridges of cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean through enhanced aviation links. During his visit, the Honourable Minister held a series of productive bilateral meetings with key Cabinet Ministers of th...

ANCLA leadership pledges support for NDLEA at TINCAN Port  The Chairman of the Tincan Island Port chapter of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Prince Olawale Cole, has led other elected executive members on an official visit to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Commander of the Tincan Island Port Strategic Command, Ofoyeju Mitchell.  The working visit sought to establish a collaborative framework between the ANLCA and the NDLEA in tackling the growing menace of narcotics at the seaport. During the visit, Prince Cole emphasised the association's commitment to supporting NDLEA's efforts in eradicating drug trafficking, noting that the challenges posed by narcotics are detrimental to both national security and the ease of doing business at the port.  “It is crucial for us to work hand in hand with the NDLEA to implement effective measures that will enhance our operations while keeping drug trafficking at bay,” he stated. Ofoyeju Mitc...