Nigeria to Receive First Dry-Leased Aircraft in 26 Years — A New Dawn for Aviation
On October 6, 2025, Nigeria will welcome the first dry-leased aircraft in the country in 26 years, marking a historic milestone for the nation’s aviation sector.
For context, a dry lease allows airline companies to lease an aircraft without purchasing it outright, paying instead over an agreed period for commercial operations. This practice is common worldwide but had been unavailable to Nigeria for decades.
This breakthrough comes after Nigeria was removed from the global blacklist, thanks to the successful implementation of the Cape Town Convention earlier this year, following the intervention of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN).
Why It Matters:
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Lower Ticket Prices – Increased competition and reduced airline costs will directly impact fares.
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Fewer Flight Cancellations – Airlines will enjoy greater flexibility and improved fleet availability.
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Operational Efficiency – Leasing reduces upfront capital burdens, encouraging more entrants into the market.
Industry experts see this as a game-changer that could transform Nigeria’s aviation landscape, making air travel more affordable, reliable, and competitive.
