The agreement ceremony held during the visit of the Nigerian Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development accompanied by government officials and key industry stakeholders to France.

As part of this agreement, Airbus and the Federal Government will support the development of aviation infrastructures and human capital initiatives in Nigeria.

“This visit is a clear step toward strengthening partnerships, unlocking investment and positioning Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s aviation future. Through our engagement with Airbus, we are committed to building a more innovative and globally competitive aviation ecosystem for our country”, stated Mr Festus Keyamo, minister of Civil Aviation and Aerospace Development of Nigeria.

“Nigeria is sitting at the heart of Africa’s aerospace opportunities, driven by its status as one of the fastest-growing nations worldwide with a population of 230 million and its thriving economy. This agreement reflects our shared ambition to scale the civil aviation ecosystem in the country. By leveraging Nigeria’s local talents and infrastructures, we are committed to fostering long term growth and human capital development to strengthen the country’s and the continent’s aviation industry”, said Mr Gabriel Semelas, president, Airbus Africa and the Middle East.

In detail, Airbus will provide comprehensive technical support including aviation market insights, crew and maintenance training, as well as repair and overhaul (MRO) and flight operations consulting services.

The agreement will also foster exchanges between Airbus experts and Nigerian students to engage in the aerospace industry, Africa’s growing aviation market and technical themes, aiming at inspiring the next generation of Nigerian aerospace talents.

This agreement is a testimony of Airbus long term engagement in Africa, currently driven by a dedicated workforce of 3,000 employees.

It underlines the company’s commitment to Africa’s aerospace ecosystem by fostering local partnerships, enhancing skills development, and advancing technical expertise within the region.

Airbus most recent Global Market Forecast predicts that commercial demand for the African continent will reach 1,490 new passenger and freighter aircraft by 2044.

Additionally, Airbus Global Services Forecast estimates that Africa will need to introduce 20,000 additional pilots, 30,000 mechanics and 21,000 cabin crews to meet the surge in air travel demand.

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Gabriel Semelas brings more than 24 years of experience in the aeronautical industry, having held key senior executive roles.

He returns to Airbus from his current position as Chief Commercial and Financial Officer at Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH in Germany.

Prior to that, he led the contracts team for Airbus’ Commercial Aircraft business in Africa and the Middle East.

In his new role, Gabriel Semelas will be responsible for overseeing Airbus’ operations across all the company’s divisions in the Africa and Middle East region, a key area for Airbus strategic development.

Wouter Van Wersch, executive vice president International at Airbus, said: “Gabriel’s extensive background in the aeronautical industry, coupled with his proven leadership skills, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Airbus’ operations in Africa and the Middle East. We are confident that under his leadership, we will continue to strengthen our presence and partnerships in this strategically important region.”

“I am honoured to take on this responsibility at such a pivotal time for Airbus in Africa and the Middle East. I look forward to working with our talented teams and partners to drive growth and innovation in this dynamic market,” said Gabriel Semelas.

Gabriel Semelas succeeds Mikail Houari, who has played a crucial role in expanding Airbus’ footprint in the region over the past years.

With a significant presence throughout the Middle East and Africa, Airbus employs more than 3,300 people and remains committed to delivering industry leading products and services to customers across the region. The company actively sources supplies and components from local companies and provides comprehensive technical support to its partners. Airbus has also launched several initiatives aimed at developing skills and talent in the region, nurturing the future leaders of the aerospace industry.

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