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'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, has called on airline operators flying into and out of Nigeria to incorporate local Nigerian dishes into their in-flight meals. Keyamo made this request during a meeting with the Lufthansa Group at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
The minister emphasized the importance of promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage and supporting local businesses through the airline industry. He highlighted the need for foreign airlines to serve Nigerian cuisine as part of their meal options during flights, stating that such a move would foster cultural pride, stimulate economic growth, and provide opportunities for local caterers.
In addition to the appeal for Nigerian dishes, Keyamo also urged all airlines operating in Nigeria to ensure that their aircraft are in top condition when serving Nigerian passengers. He expressed dissatisfaction with the use of outdated planes by some foreign airlines on Nigerian routes while modern aircraft are deployed on other international routes.
During the meeting, Keyamo informed the Lufthansa Group that the Nigerian government has recently upgraded the Muhammadu Buhari Airport in Maiduguri to international status. He urged the airline to explore the opportunities presented by this upgrade, which is expected to open up new market prospects for airlines once the airport commences operations on January 1, 2025.
The minister’s statement underscores the government's ongoing efforts to enhance Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and create a more conducive environment for both local and international airline operators.
Rene Koinzack, Senior Director of Sales for Southern and East Africa, Nigeria, and Equatorial Guinea at Lufthansa Group, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Festus Keyamo for the transformational changes taking place at Nigeria's airports. He specifically praised the efficiency of the Nigeria Immigration Service at the airports, noting that passengers were now experiencing smoother processes.
In response to Keyamo’s call for local dishes, Koinzack affirmed Lufthansa’s commitment to serving Nigerian cuisine to passengers on their flights. He also reiterated Lufthansa Group's support for the continued growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry and economy, pledging to further strengthen the airline's partnership with the Nigerian government.
**Boost to Nigeria’s Economy and Cultural Promotion**
Keyamo’s request aligns with the government’s broader agenda to boost local industries and promote Nigerian culture globally. By encouraging foreign airlines to serve local dishes and use modern aircraft, the aviation sector could play a vital role in driving economic development and fostering national pride.
The meeting with Lufthansa Group also highlighted the ongoing improvements in Nigeria’s aviation sector and the government’s determination to create a world-class travel experience for Nigerians and international visitors alike.
