Private Aircraft Used for Money Laundering, Drug Trafficking – Keyamo

ABUJA — The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has voiced strong concerns over the use of private aircraft for illegal activities such as hard drug transportation and money laundering in Nigeria.

In a management meeting held in Abuja on Thursday, Keyamo highlighted the rampant nature of illegal charter operations within the aviation sector. He emphasized his commitment to addressing these issues decisively and without hesitation.

Keyamo stated that approximately 80 operators of private jets have been summoned to appear at the Nigeria Customs headquarters in Abuja with their aircraft import documents.

Reflecting on his promise to ensure safety, support for local operators, and enhance revenue generation upon assuming office, Keyamo noted that the activities of illegal operators have resulted in significant financial losses for the Federal Government, as well as raised serious security and safety concerns in the industry.

He said, “It has come to my attention, through a series of disturbing reports, that the practice of illegal charter operations is thriving within the aviation industry, thereby undermining the efforts of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and other regulatory bodies.

“These illicit activities have not only resulted in significant financial losses to the Federal Government but have also raised security and safety concerns as the operations of private aircraft owners have remained largely unchecked and unregulated. This has also resulted in using these private aircraft for other illegal activities.”

The minister’s remarks underscore the urgent need for stringent regulatory measures to curb these illegal operations and safeguard the integrity of the aviation sector in Nigeria.