The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on Tuesday asked foreign airlines to patronise local caterers for onboard meals.
Keyamo’s call was contained in a statement signed by Odutayo Oluseyi, the Head of Press and Public Affairs, at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
According to the statement, Keyamo stated this while receiving Lufthansa Group at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
The minister “mandated all aircraft leaving or coming into Nigeria to ensure they treat Nigerians well on board of their flights.”
“He said the essence of requesting local dishes during airlift is to promote Nigeria cultural heritage, and economic development and encourage local caterers.
“Keyamo appealed to foreign airlines to ensure all aircraft coming to Nigeria are in good shape. He decried the level at which some foreign airlines lift Nigerian Passengers with outdated aircraft while using the most modern ones in other countries.
“Keyamo informed the Lufthansa Group that the Nigeria government has upgraded Muhammadu Buhari Airport Maiduguri to International airport and urged them to utilise this opportunity to harness the huge market awaiting all airlines when the airport commences operation on January 1, 2025.”
