Nigeria has formally declared its intention to seek re-election to Part II of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to global aviation standards and safety protocols.
Speaking at the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, also appealed for the endorsement of African Union-backed candidates, emphasizing continental solidarity in global aviation governance.
In a statement issued Wednesday by the minister’s media aide, Tunde Moshood, Keyamo expressed Nigeria’s determination to continue playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of international aviation.
“As Africa’s most populous nation and a strategic aviation hub in West Africa, Nigeria continues to invest in infrastructure modernization, regulatory reform, and capacity building,” Keyamo said.
The assembly, which runs from September 23 to October 3, brings together global aviation leaders, policymakers, and regulators to set the agenda for international civil aviation.
During his address, Keyamo extended greetings from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian people, congratulating Naif Al-Abri, President of the 42nd Assembly and Head of Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority, along with other elected ICAO officials.
He emphasized Nigeria’s compliance with all major international air law instruments, including the Montreal Protocol and amendments to the Chicago Convention, noting that Nigeria has been a Council member since 1962.
Keyamo also reaffirmed Nigeria’s backing for the Global Aviation Safety Plan, Air Navigation Plan, and Security Plan, and highlighted the country’s active leadership roles within BAGASOO (Banjul Accord Group Safety Oversight Organisation) and BAGAIA (Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency).
According to the minister, Nigeria’s aviation sector has undergone significant transformation in recent years. Key achievements and commitments shared at the Assembly include:
- Modern Aviation Infrastructure: Government investment in modern, secure, and eco-friendly terminals aimed at positioning Nigeria as Africa’s most competitive aviation hub.
- Security Enhancements: Deployment of advanced aviation security equipment, continuous personnel training, and participation in ICAO’s Public Key Directory (PKD) to strengthen air transport security.
- Environmental Sustainability: Active participation in CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation), with an ongoing State Action Plan on emissions reduction and collaboration with the European Union on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
- Bilateral Relations: Strengthened international cooperation, including recent Air Services Agreements with Canada, and support for liberalization under the Yamoussoukro Decision (YD) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
“We remain firmly committed to ICAO’s principles and to promoting safe, secure, and sustainable air transport systems that connect people and drive economic development,” the minister said.
Nigeria to Host First-Ever International Airshow
In a significant announcement, Keyamo invited ICAO member states and stakeholders to attend Nigeria’s first-ever International Airshow, scheduled for December 2–4, 2025, in Abuja.
The event will bring together both civil and military aviation sectors and is expected to serve as a major platform to showcase Nigeria’s growing aviation potential on the global stage.
“This event will not only display our aviation advancements but also foster greater partnerships and investment opportunities,” Keyamo said.
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