Keyamo Reaffirms Nigeria’s Commitment To Regional Aviation Cooperation

Spread the love

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, has reaffirmed the country’s strong commitment to regional aviation cooperation and development during the opening ceremony of the 18th Plenary Session of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) held in Abuja.

Welcoming high-level participants, including directors general of civil aviation from BAG Member States, airline operators, regional aviation bodies and representatives of international organisations, Keyamo extended warm greetings from President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people.

He expressed deep appreciation for the delegates’ presence, noting the importance of such collaboration in shaping Africa’s aviation future.

Speaking on the significance of the gathering, Keyamo praised the milestones achieved by the Banjul Accord Group in enhancing aviation safety, oversight and cooperation across West Africa.

He particularly highlighted the roles of the Banjul Accord Group Aviation Safety Oversight Organisation (BAGASOO) headquartered in Abuja and the Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA) in Praia, Cape Verde. According to him, these institutions have helped to harmonise regulatory frameworks, strengthen accident investigations and build capacity within the region, despite financial and infrastructural limitations.

“These organisations have demonstrated the power of regional solidarity,” he said. “They’ve raised the bar in aviation safety and regulatory excellence.”

Looking ahead, the Minister proposed the institutionalisation of BAG into a more autonomous and structured entity capable of delivering long-term, sustainable goals. He emphasised that a formalised BAG would boost regional competitiveness and position West Africa as a key player in global aviation.

Keyamo also called for urgent and full implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), describing it as a transformative initiative that aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063. He expressed concern over the slow pace of implementation despite earlier commitments, urging member states to move from policy declarations to concrete action.

“Our skies must be open to opportunity, not constrained by outdated borders,” he said. “Increased air connectivity is essential for trade, tourism and integration across the continent.”

He concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s unwavering dedication to the principles of cooperation, safety and integration within BAG and Africa at large. Declaring the 18th Plenary Session officially open, Keyamo encouraged delegates to work together in shaping a stronger, more connected future for African aviation.