Nigeria Seeks ICAO Support, Canvasses Re-election to Governing Council

Stories by Chinedu Eze

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has urged the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to deepen its technical and institutional assistance for developing nations. 

Speaking at the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada, Keyamo canvassed for targeted help to manage the country’s rapid growth in air traffic, which is increasing by more than eight per cent annually.

Keyamo urged ICAO to support Nigeria in safety oversight, climate-resilient infrastructure, and digital transformation, saying that this is crucial because “no nation should be left behind in the pursuit of a truly global, inclusive, and future-ready aviation ecosystem.” 

He stressed Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to ICAO, having been a council member since 1962 and having ratified every major international air-law instrument.

The minister also showcased Nigeria’s leadership in promoting aviation safety across Africa, particularly through its hosting and funding of the Banjul Accord Group’s Aviation Safety Oversight Organization (BAGASOO) and Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA). 

The regional commitment is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to become West Africa’s most competitive aviation hub. 

The government is investing in modernising airports, expanding runway capacity, and deploying environmentally friendly technologies to serve its population of over 220 million.

On the diplomatic front, Keyamo announced several new Air Services Agreements, including a significant pact with Canada, aimed at boosting global connectivity. 

He also praised Africa’s push for market liberalisation through the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).