Tinubu Announces Landmark Partnership to Establish World-Class Aircraft MRO Facility in Nigeria

Tinubu Announces Landmark Partnership to Establish World-Class Aircraft MRO Facility in Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unveiled a major breakthrough for Nigeria’s aviation sector, announcing a strategic partnership between the Federal Government, global aerospace giant Boeing, and the UK-based Cranfield University to establish a world-class Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in the country.

The announcement marks one of Nigeria’s most ambitious moves to strengthen local aviation capacity, reduce dependence on foreign maintenance hubs, and grow the nation’s technical workforce.

According to the Presidency, the partnership will deliver a full-scale MRO centre capable of servicing commercial aircraft, improving safety standards, and significantly cutting the billions of naira spent annually by Nigerian airlines on maintenance abroad. Boeing is expected to provide technical expertise and global best practices, while Cranfield University will offer advanced training, research collaboration, and capacity development for aviation professionals.

President Tinubu described the initiative as “a transformative step toward positioning Nigeria as a leading aviation hub in Africa,” adding that the facility will create high-skilled jobs, boost the economy, and support the long-term growth of the aviation industry.

Construction timelines and operational frameworks are expected to be announced in the coming months, with stakeholders expressing optimism that the project will elevate Nigeria’s profile in global aviation.