By Alexis Uchendu
The Federal Government of Nigeria has mandated that international airlines operating in the country must engage local catering services for outbound flights starting January 2025 or risk losing their flight schedule approvals.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, restated this directive during an interview on Channels Television on Sunday, emphasizing its economic importance.
He explained that the policy aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of creating a $1 trillion economy by strengthening local industries.
Keyamo noted that the practice of foreign airlines sourcing outbound meals from their home countries results in significant economic losses for Nigeria.
“The foreign aircraft come into Nigeria with passengers; they come with inbound meals. Many, but not all, come with their outbound meals, which are frozen.
“That is close to $1 billion in yearly income. We can’t deny our domestic caterers that opportunity,” he said.
He further stated that international airlines unwilling to comply with the directive should prepare to cease operations in the country.
“Unless they have a contract with our local caterers, we won’t approve their flight schedule,” Keyamo warned.
The policy, originally announced in October 2024, has generated mixed reactions within the aviation sector. While some stakeholders applaud the initiative as a boost for local businesses, others have raised concerns about implementation challenges and potential costs.
Despite the debate, the government insists that the move is vital for retaining revenue, creating jobs, and empowering local caterers in the aviation industry.
