Nigeria: Aviation Minister Mandates Foreign Airlines to Use Local Caterers for On-Board Meals

By Utebor Paul, Nigeria

The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has issued a directive mandating that all outbound flights from Nigeria, particularly foreign airlines, patronize local caterers for on-board meals. This decision will take effect on January 1, 2025.

In a letter dated October 15, 2024, and addressed to the acting Director of General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Captain Chris Najomo, signed by H.T. Ejibunu, Director Overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, the minister instructed that the directive be communicated to all foreign airlines, urging them to ensure strict compliance with the new policy.

The statement reads, “I am directed by the Honorable Minister of Aviation to convey to you his decision to mandate all outbound flights from Nigeria, especially foreign airlines, to patronize local caterers for on-board meals.”

Foreign airlines are expected to adhere to the directive by the start of 2025