BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has joined the long list of aviation industry stakeholders to congratulate the 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 regional body comprising seven West African nations committed to strengthening civil aviation cooperation and standards.
AON in a statement signed by its President, Alhaji Abdulmunaf Yunusa and the Vice, Dr. Allen Onyema, described Keyamo’s appointment as “a testament to his exceptional leadership, bold reforms and tireless dedication.
The AON noted that the elevation further cements Nigeria’s pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of aviation development in Africa and beyond.
“Since assuming office, Mr. Keyamo has championed far-reaching reforms that have revitalized the aviation industry
“From his push for a revised regulatory framework for leased aircraft insurance to Nigeria’s proactive participation in the global Aviation Working Group, his efforts have significantly boosted investor confidence, aircraft financing options, and the ease of doing business for indigenous operators”, the statement added.
Highlighting recent breakthroughs under Keyamo’s watch, the AON referenced Air Peace’s historic Lagos-to-London commercial flight and Nigeria’s strategic presence at the Aviation Finance Conference in Dublin as “milestones that have placed the nation firmly on the global aviation map.”
They praised his “unwavering commitment to safety, efficiency, and sustainable growth,” particularly his advocacy for infrastructure upgrades and implementation of the Cape Town Convention, which they said have “enhanced Nigeria’s international aviation standing.”
In acknowledging the wider leadership context, the AON expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating: “We thank Mr. President for his visionary leadership and for consistently demonstrating an exceptional ability to put round pegs in round holes.
The appointment of Festus Keyamo, SAN, is proof that when competent hands are entrusted with responsibility, the results speak for themselves.”
The AON also expressed confidence that Keyamo would bring the same dynamism and strategic focus to his role at the BAG Council of Ministers, advancing regional collaboration and sustainable aviation growth across West Africa.
