Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has disclosed that some private aircraft operating in the country are being utilized for money laundering, drug trafficking, and other illicit activities. The revelation was made during an event at the Ministry of Aviation in Abuja on Thursday, where Keyamo inaugurated a Ministerial Taskforce Committee aimed at curbing illegal charter operations in Nigeria.
Although the minister did not specify the names of the airlines involved, he emphasized that these illegal activities have resulted in substantial financial losses for the aviation sector and have raised significant security concerns. Keyamo pointed out that some individuals who acquired licenses for non-commercial flight operations have violated the terms of their agreements, engaging in activities that undermine the integrity of the aviation industry.
In his address to the committee members, Keyamo tasked them with conducting a comprehensive inventory of all non-commercial flight operators. He instructed the committee to scrutinize all professional licenses, verify their authenticity, and recommend disciplinary measures against any airlines found to be involved in illegal activities.
The eight-member committee is chaired by Ado Sanusi, the Chief Executive Officer of Aero Contractors. The committee has been given a three-month deadline to report their findings to the minister. This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance security and compliance within the aviation sector.
