By Omoniyi David
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has urged African states, particularly members of the African Union (AU), to support Nigeria’s re-election into Part 2 of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Council.
Delivering Nigeria’s statement at the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada, Keyamo reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the organization’s principles, citing ongoing investments in infrastructure modernization, regulatory reforms, and capacity building to align the aviation sector with global standards.
He noted that Nigeria hosts and remains the largest contributor to the Banjul Accord Group Aviation Safety Oversight Organization (BAGASOO), while also supporting the Regional Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA).
He added that Nigeria has met its environmental obligations by submitting its state action plan on carbon emission reduction and voluntarily participating in the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
Commending ICAO’s leadership and the Canadian government for hosting a successful assembly, Keyamo expressed gratitude for the reception accorded the Nigerian delegation.
He called on delegates to look beyond geographical differences and work collectively to achieve ICAO’s goals, stressing: “The skies may divide our geographies, but through ICAO, they unite our goals and aspirations.”
The minister also invited the ICAO Council to the Nigerian International Airshow, scheduled for Abuja from December 2 to 4, 2025.
