The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Growth, Festus Keyamo, has directed all airways working in Nigeria to offer serving navy personnel precedence boarding forward of first- or business-class passengers.
Keyamo introduced the directive throughout a stakeholder assembly on Tuesday to overview preparations for the Centenary Celebration of Aviation in Nigeria and the primary Nigeria Worldwide Air Present, scheduled for December 2–4, 2025.
Based on the minister, the brand new coverage is in recognition of the selfless service and sacrifices of Nigeria’s armed forces.
“That is what is finished in different international locations, and it isn’t a foul factor to repeat. It’s the least we will do to honour our serving navy personnel,” Keyamo mentioned.
The Everlasting Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Growth, Ibrahim Kana, who can be a part of the organising committee, confirmed that the directive can be promptly communicated to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority for implementation.
He described the transfer as each “sensible and symbolic,” including that it visibly demonstrates nationwide gratitude towards the armed forces.
The proposal has additionally been embraced by trade stakeholders, who declare it will increase workers morale and foster respect for the navy.
Nigeria’s transfer aligns with world greatest practices already established in international locations similar to america, Canada, and a number of other European nations.
In america, for instance, main carriers similar to Delta Air Traces, American Airways, and Southwest Airways allow active-duty navy personnel to board earlier than first-class passengers by producing correct navy ID.
These practices turned widespread after September 11, 2001, as a part of broader efforts to indicate appreciation for navy service and stay a longtime air journey custom.
Moreover, the directive seeks to enhance civil-military relations, particularly as safety personnel are nonetheless concerned in counter-insurgency and peacekeeping missions all through the nation.
The Ministry of Aviation has tasked the NCAA with issuing clear implementation tips, together with verification of navy credentials, workers coaching for boarding procedures, and constant public communication to make sure a easy rollout.
Kana added that airways shall be required to replace their boarding programs and embrace the brand new class for serving navy personnel in check-in and announcement protocols. He famous that the ministry intends to make this a permanent coverage, not only a ceremonial gesture tied to the centenary occasions.
By approving precedence boarding for active-duty navy personnel, Nigeria joins the ranks of countries that visibly honour their armed forces. As soon as totally executed, the initiative will function an enduring image of respect, unity, and nationwide gratitude for many who shield Nigeria’s supremacy.