Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has defended his directive requiring foreign airlines to use local caterers for on-board meals starting January 1, 2025. In a statement on X, Keyamo emphasized that this policy aims to boost the local economy by supporting Nigerian businesses.
Keyamo clarified that foreign airlines are not being asked to serve local dishes but can request any type of meal, including continental options, from Nigerian caterers. He criticized the current practice of serving reheated frozen meals brought from abroad on outbound flights, calling it unacceptable.
Addressing food safety concerns, Keyamo reassured that Nigeria has robust quality control measures in place to ensure the safety and hygiene of locally prepared meals. He urged foreign airlines to trust Nigeria’s food safety standards just as Nigerians trust the quality of food brought into the country.
The minister stressed the economic benefits of this decision, stating that with Nigeria’s large population and significant air traffic, local businesses should be prioritized over foreign competitors.
