Keyamo Orders Airlines To Give Boarding Priority To Military Personnel

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has directed all airlines operating in Nigeria to henceforth give boarding priority to serving members of the armed forces, ahead of other passengers, including those in first or business class.

The directive, which was issued on Tuesday, underscores the federal government’s renewed effort to honour the sacrifices and commitment of Nigeria’s military personnel in safeguarding the nation’s peace and territorial integrity.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the minister said the gesture was a mark of respect and appreciation for the men and women in uniform who risk their lives daily in the line of duty.

> “Our military personnel deserve to be treated with the utmost respect wherever they go. This is a small but symbolic way to acknowledge their service to our fatherland,” Keyamo was quoted as saying.

He instructed all domestic and international airlines operating within Nigeria to comply with the directive without delay, noting that the policy aligns with global best practices where uniformed service members are accorded special privileges in recognition of their national service.

Airlines are expected to make appropriate adjustments to their boarding announcements and procedures, ensuring that military personnel are identified and invited to board first before other passengers.

The ministry added that monitoring teams would be deployed to ensure compliance across all airports in the country.

Industry analysts have described the move as a commendable gesture that could boost morale among the armed forces, though some have also urged the government to balance such symbolic actions with improved welfare packages and operational support for security agencies.

The new directive takes effect immediately.