Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Aviation Safety at 42nd ICAO Assembly
Nigeria has reinforced its commitment to global aviation safety standards as its delegation, led by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, attended the 42nd Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in Montreal, Canada. The Nigerian delegation highlighted the country’s ongoing efforts to align its aviation sector with international safety, security, and sustainability standards.
Speaking at the Assembly, Minister Keyamo conveyed greetings from President Bola Tinubu and praised ICAO leadership for guiding global aviation. He emphasized Nigeria’s active role since joining the ICAO Council in 1962, noting the nation’s ratification of key international aviation instruments such as the Montreal Protocol and amendments to the Chicago Convention. “Nigeria remains firmly committed to the principles and objectives of ICAO, investing in infrastructure modernization, regulatory reform, and capacity building to meet global standards,” Keyamo stated.
Keyamo also outlined Nigeria’s support for major global aviation initiatives, including the Global Aviation Safety Plan, Global Air Navigation Plan, and Global Aviation Security Plan. He underscored the country’s strengthened bilateral ties, recent Air Services Agreements with Canada, and advocacy for the Yamoussoukro Decision and the Single African Air Transport Market. Ongoing investments in secure, environmentally friendly airport infrastructure and advanced aviation technologies were highlighted as part of Nigeria’s drive to become Africa’s most competitive aviation hub.
In a significant diplomatic achievement, Nigeria secured the re-election of Engr. Mahmoud Ben-Tukur to Part II of the ICAO Council. Ben-Tukur received 163 votes out of 185, defeating candidates from 11 other African nations. The minister described the victory as a “proud moment for Nigeria and Africa,” reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership role in shaping international aviation policies and standards while advancing African interests.
Looking ahead, Minister Keyamo invited the global aviation community to the inaugural Nigerian International Airshow in Abuja, scheduled from 2–4 December 2025. The event will showcase Nigeria’s growing civil and military aviation capabilities. Concluding his remarks, Keyamo stressed that innovation, sustainability, and cross-border partnerships are key to building a truly inclusive global aviation ecosystem where no nation is left behind.
source: Punch