Nigeria’s drive to build a world-class aviation workforce has received a further boost with the official launch of the United Nigeria Airlines/Boeing B1/B2 Engineer Training Programme for the Boeing 737-800 Next-Generation aircraft.
The programme was formally launched at Aviation Techniks & Trainings International (ATTI) in Ikeja, Lagos, by the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK), alongside the Consul General of the United States in Nigeria, Mr Rick Swart.
The initiative, a key outcome of the 2024 Boeing–Nigeria MoU, is designed to develop indigenous technical expertise, address the shortage of licensed aircraft maintenance engineers, and support the planned induction of additional Boeing 737-800NG aircraft by Nigerian airlines.
The strategic partnership between Boeing, Nigerian carriers and the Federal Government underscores Nigeria’s commitment to aviation capacity development, technology transfer, workforce empowerment and operational excellence.
The training initiative comes at a critical point for Nigeria’s aviation industry, coinciding with the planned induction of 14 Boeing 737-800NG aircraft by three major Nigerian carriers: United Nigeria Airlines, ValueJet and Air Peace.
The Honourable Minister, represented by Obafemi Bajomo, Senior Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister on Foreign Direct Investment and Capital Improvement Programmes, described the initiative as both timely and strategic, reflecting the Federal Government’s commitment to developing indigenous technical capacity and reducing dependence on foreign maintenance expertise.
“The future of aviation depends not only on modern aircraft and infrastructure but also on the quality of the engineers, technicians, pilots, and aviation professionals who keep our skies safe,” Keyamo noted.
The programme also highlights Boeing’s continued confidence in Nigeria’s aviation market and its growing role as a strategic aviation hub on the African continent. Through investment in training and technical development, Boeing is helping to cultivate the next generation of aviation professionals who will support the industry’s expansion in the years ahead.
The launch further reflects the impact of the economic reforms being implemented under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
The Minister expressed appreciation to Mr Rick Swart for his commitment to strengthening commercial and economic ties between Nigeria and the United States, particularly in encouraging American companies to expand investment and partnerships within Nigeria.
