Keyamo champions African aviation integration, infrastructure investment

By Dickson Omobola

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the ideals of the Single African Air Transport Market, SAATM, and the African Continental Free Trade Area, AfCFTA, saying enhanced air connectivity remains critical to unlocking the vast economic potential of the continent.

Keyamo spoke on the sidelines of the convention, Monday, after leading a high-level Nigerian delegation to formally welcome former President Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, to the ongoing African Air Transport Convention and Expo 2026 taking place in Lomé, Republic of Togo.

The Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, in a statement, said the convention, which has brought together Africa’s foremost aviation policymakers, regulators, industry leaders and development partners, serves as a strategic platform for advancing air transport connectivity, regional integration and sustainable aviation development across the continent.

The statement reads: “Obasanjo’s presence at the event underscores his enduring commitment to Africa’s economic integration and the growth of the aviation sector as a catalyst for trade, tourism and development.

“Also in attendance at the prestigious gathering are Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Togo, and Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, alongside other distinguished leaders and stakeholders from across Africa and beyond.

“The Nigerian delegation reflects the country’s leading role in shaping the future of African aviation. Members of the delegation include Mrs. Adefunke Adeyemi, participating in her capacity as the Secretary General of the African Civil Aviation Commission, AFCAC; Captain Juan Olubodun, the SAATM Ambassador for the Western Region; and Captain Chris Najomo, Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, among others.”

On Keyamo’s commitment to SAATM, the statement said: “He noted that Nigeria will continue to work closely with sister African nations and regional aviation institutions to promote policies and partnerships that will strengthen air transport, improve infrastructure, encourage investment and facilitate seamless movement of people and goods across Africa.”

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