Nigeria to Host 2026 ACI Africa Conference as Aviation Leaders Endorse Country’s Readiness
Nigeria has officially announced its readiness to host the 2026 Airports Council International (ACI) Africa Regional Conference and Exhibition. The confirmation followed a high-level visit by ACI Africa Secretary-General, Ali Tounsi, who met with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in Abuja. The engagement marks one of the first major steps in preparations for the continent’s biggest airport and aviation gathering.
During the meeting, Tounsi expressed confidence in Nigeria’s aviation capabilities and emphasized the country’s long-standing influence within Africa’s aviation ecosystem. Describing Nigeria as a “natural choice” for the 2026 conference, he noted that the nation’s leadership footprint and industry presence made it a fitting venue for the flagship event scheduled for September 2026.
A statement released by the minister’s media aide, Tunde Moshood, confirmed that the ACI Africa delegation also met with top officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). Those in attendance included FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Henry Agbebire, and Director of Commercial and Business Development, Mrs. Adebola Agunbiade.
Tounsi praised Nigeria’s commitment to aviation growth and highlighted the country’s role in hosting essential aviation institutions, noting that it was only right for ACI Africa to return for a major event. Her remarks reflected a broad global confidence in Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, industry expertise, and ability to coordinate large-scale international events.
Responding on behalf of the Federal Government, Minister Keyamo reaffirmed Nigeria’s full readiness to deliver a world-class conference. “We accept wholeheartedly to host. Nigeria has the capacity, the infrastructure, and the commitment to deliver a world-class conference. You can count on us,” he assured, signaling the country’s determination to strengthen its place on the global aviation map.
source: punch