Bola Ahmed Tinubu has endorsed a proposal by Airbus to establish aircraft maintenance and hangar facilities in Nigeria, saying the initiative could transform the country into a regional hub for aerospace and aviation services.
Tinubu made the remarks during a meeting with an Airbus delegation led by Thierry Cloutet, Head of Regional Business Growth for Africa and the Middle East, on the sidelines of the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali.
According to a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the president stressed the urgent need for modern helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft to strengthen security operations, improve logistics, and support national development efforts as the government intensifies efforts to tackle insecurity across parts of the country.
Cloutet praised Tinubu’s economic reforms and efforts aimed at stabilizing Nigeria’s aviation sector, while reaffirming Airbus’ commitment to supporting the country’s long-term aerospace ambitions.
He proposed a “360-degree engagement” partnership model that would cover commercial and military aircraft cooperation, human capital development, sustainability initiatives, operational hubs, and maintenance infrastructure.
The proposed collaboration is also expected to include partnerships in satellite and Earth observation technology, further expanding Nigeria’s aviation and aerospace capabilities.
