XeJet launches MRO facility in Abuja as FG unveils plan to begin manufacturing of aircraft in Nigeria
The Federal Government, under the leadership of Tinubu, has announced plans to collaborate on establishing an aircraft manufacturing company in Nigeria.
Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, revealed this initiative during the launch of XeJet’s Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility and flight support center in Abuja.
Keyamo highlighted that this effort aligns with the government’s aim to support local operators and strengthen the nation’s aviation industry.
This new facility is a result of a partnership between XeJet and local financial institutions, with the ambition of making Nigeria a regional hub for aviation services.
The Minister remarked, “Since taking office, our focus has been on attracting MRO facilities to enhance our aviation ecosystem, similar to those found in other regions of the world.”
“We’ve searched far and wide for investors, but now we see that what we were looking for elsewhere is right here at home. This collaboration between an indigenous operator and local banks is a dream come true.”
Emphasizing the project’s significance, the minister noted the inclusion of additional facilities, such as a training centre, which he described as “a huge achievement.”
Keyamo added: “This development will not only serve Nigeria but will attract users from across the West African sub-region. That’s the dream—to make this facility a regional center for excellence.”
Speaking on the broader vision, the Chief Executive Officer of XEJet, Emmanuel Iza, highlighted plans to position Nigeria on the global map of aircraft manufacturing, repairs and operations.
“The vision is ambitious. It is to contribute to aircraft manufacturing, even if it’s just components like wings, landing gears, or tires. Nigeria has the talent and ability; we just need the enabling environment and facilities to make it happen,” he said.
Iza emphasized the job prospects that the multi-million dollar initiative is expected to generate for Nigerians, noting that XeJet currently has around 300 employees.
He mentioned that with the launch of this new facility, the organization aims to quadruple that number.
The first phase involves preparing the site, which includes leveling the ground and constructing a taxiway to connect the runway to the facility, with an estimated investment of $5 million.
He also highlighted that building the facility will require a comparable financial investment.
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