Nigeria committed to single African air market – Keyamo

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to the ideals of the Single African Air Transport Market and the African Continental Free Trade Area, stressing that enhanced air connectivity remains critical to unlocking Africa’s economic potential. Keyamo stated this on the sidelines of the ongoing African Air Transport Convention and Expo 2026 in Lomé, Republic of Togo, according to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood. The minister noted that Nigeria would continue to collaborate with other African countries and regional aviation institutions to advance policies and partnerships aimed at strengthening air transport across the continent. The statement read, “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.” Moshood said Keyamo also led a high-level Nigerian delegation to formally welcome former President Olusegun Obasanjo to the convention, which has brought together aviation policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, and development partners from across Africa. According to the statement, Obasanjo’s participation in the event reflected his continued support for regional integration and the aviation sector. It stated, “Former President 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.” The statement added that the convention was attended by the President of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Togo, Faure Gnassingbé, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, and other stakeholders in the aviation industry. Members of the Nigerian delegation included Mrs Adefunke Adeyemi, who attended in her capacity as Secretary-General of the African Civil Aviation Commission; Captain Juan “Boyo” Olubodun, the Single African Air Transport Market Ambassador for the Western Region; and the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Captain Chris Najomo, among others. According to Moshood, the African Air Transport Convention and Expo 2026 will feature high-level engagements, technical sessions, and bilateral meetings aimed at accelerating the transformation of Africa’s aviation ecosystem into a globally competitive and integrated network. Princess Etuk Princess Etuk is