The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has commended the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, on his appointment as Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG), a coalition of seven West African countries committed to advancing civil aviation in the sub-region.

In a congratulatory message signed by AON President, Alhaji Abdulmunaf Yunusa, and Vice President, Dr. Allen Onyema, the association described the appointment as “a testament to the Honourable Minister’s exceptional leadership, bold reforms, and tireless dedication to repositioning Nigeria’s aviation sector as a beacon of excellence across Africa.”

The AON added that it “further affirms Nigeria’s growing influence in shaping the future of aviation on the continent and globally.”

Since taking office, Minister Keyamo has implemented major reforms across the aviation sector, earning praise from industry stakeholders. The AON highlighted his push for a “revised regulatory framework for leased aircraft insurance” and Nigeria’s “proactive engagement with the global Aviation Working Group,” noting that these efforts have “significantly improved investor confidence, aircraft financing options, and ease of doing business for indigenous operators.”

Under his leadership, the aviation sector has reached new heights. “Nigerian airlines have achieved new milestones, including the historic Lagos-to-London flight by Air Peace and Nigeria’s strategic participation at the prestigious Aviation Finance Conference in Dublin, both historic feats that have placed the nation firmly on the global aviation map,” the statement read.

The Minister’s focus on international compliance and safety also came under the spotlight. The AON stated, “Minister Keyamo’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and sustainable growth is evident in his continuous push for infrastructure investment and his successful advocacy for the Cape Town Convention’s full implementation — moves that have enhanced Nigeria’s international aviation standing.”

In recognising this milestone, the AON extended “profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his visionary leadership and for consistently demonstrating an exceptional ability to put round pegs in round holes.”

The association emphasised that “the appointment of Festus Keyamo, SAN, is proof that when competent hands are entrusted with responsibility, the results speak for themselves.”

“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigeria’s aviation industry is experiencing a golden era of policy clarity, institutional reforms, and global relevance unparalleled in over two decades,” the statement added.

The AON expressed full confidence in Keyamo’s ability to drive regional progress in his new continental role. “The AON is confident that Minister Keyamo will bring the same level of innovation, excellence, and dedication to his new role at the BAG Council of Ministers, advancing regional cooperation and driving sustainable aviation development across West Africa.”

“Once again, congratulations to our Honourable Minister. The skies are indeed brighter with your leadership,” the AON concluded.

Chioma Kalu

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