ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has highlighted four key deals and milestones achieved at the recently concluded Nigerian Aircraft Acquisition and Investment Summit (NAAIS) 2026, describing the outcomes as a major boost for Nigeria’s aviation industry.
In a statement issued on Friday by his media aide, Tunde Moshood, the minister said the two-day summit unlocked four strategic deal pathways with international partners, paving the way for enhanced aircraft financing, leasing, and infrastructure development in the country.
A central highlight of the summit was a landmark partnership between Aircraft Finance Germany and Fidelity Bank Plc, aimed at addressing long-standing challenges in aircraft acquisition for Nigerian airlines.
The statement read: “Nigeria’s aviation sector has recorded a major breakthrough following the successful conclusion of the maiden edition of NAAIS 2026. A landmark aircraft financing and leasing partnership has been sealed between Aircraft Finance Germany and Fidelity Bank Plc.”
According to the statement, the collaboration will combine AFG’s technical expertise with the financial strength of Fidelity Bank to provide structured and sustainable financing solutions tailored to local operators.
Held in Lagos, the summit brought together global aviation manufacturers such as Airbus, ATR, and Embraer, alongside financiers, regulators, and development institutions, to address persistent challenges in aircraft acquisition and funding.
NAAIS 2026 delivered measurable outcomes across four specialised deal rooms targeting critical segments of the aviation value chain.
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The statement stated, “In Deal Room A, five Nigerian operators reached agreements to advance discussions with ATR and Formidion on aircraft leasing and acquisition, signalling immediate prospects for fleet expansion.
“Deal Room B focused on financial frameworks and policy support, with the Central Bank of Nigeria committing to facilitate a sector-wide awareness session in collaboration with the Bankers’ Committee.
Embraer also pledged to introduce Nigerian airlines to its Export Credit Agency financing pathway, while FSD Asset Finance undertook to develop a comprehensive working paper to guide future aviation investments.
“In Deal Room C, the National Insurance Commission moved to resolve longstanding regulatory concerns by committing to clarify the 10 per cent local retention policy on aircraft acquisition. The Commission also promised technical support to operators navigating Original Equipment Manufacturer and lessor requirements, particularly in documentation and compliance.
“Deal Room D addressed infrastructure and long-term development, with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and African Export-Import Bank agreeing to deepen collaboration on priority aviation projects.
FAAN also committed to developing a pipeline of bankable projects for submission to the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission.”
The aide further disclosed that First Metro Infrastructure and Afreximbank have initiated talks on developing an aerotropolis project at the Lagos airport, a move considered transformative for aviation-related economic activities.
Industry stakeholders described NAAIS 2026 as a bold and timely initiative that has bridged the gap between operators and financiers while laying a strong foundation for sustainable growth.
The statement further reads, “With the successful execution of the AFG-Fidelity partnership and the multiple commitments secured across the deal rooms, the summit has set a clear pathway for improved access to aircraft, stronger financial structures, and enhanced collaboration across the aviation value chain.”
Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Chris Najomo, announced that the second edition of the summit will take place on April 1 and 2, 2027, signalling continued efforts to reposition the sector.