AON Congratulates Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo On Appointment As Chairman Of Banjul Accord Group Council Of Ministers

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has congratulated the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK), on his recent appointment as Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG), a coalition of seven West African nations dedicated to the advancement of civil aviation in the region.

In a statement jointly signed by AON President, Alhaji Abdulmunaf Yunusa, and Vice President, Dr. Allen Onyema, the association hailed Keyamo’s appointment as a recognition of his transformative leadership and outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s aviation sector.

“This remarkable appointment is a testament to the Honourable Minister’s exceptional leadership, bold reforms, and tireless dedication to repositioning Nigeria’s aviation sector as a beacon of excellence across Africa,” the AON said. “It also reaffirms Nigeria’s growing influence in shaping the future of aviation on the continent and globally.”

Since assuming office, Keyamo has introduced several reforms aimed at revitalizing the aviation industry. These include updates to regulatory frameworks governing aircraft leasing and insurance, Nigeria’s proactive engagement with the global Aviation Working Group, and strategic efforts to boost investor confidence and improve financing options for indigenous operators.

Among the minister’s notable achievements are the successful launch of direct Lagos-to-London commercial flights by Air Peace and Nigeria’s active participation at the prestigious Aviation Finance Conference in Dublin — milestones that have elevated the country’s global aviation profile.

The AON commended Keyamo’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and sustainable growth, citing his advocacy for increased infrastructure investment and the full implementation of the Cape Town Convention as game-changing policies for Nigeria’s aviation future.

The association also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as “visionary leadership” and for appointing “competent hands” to drive the Renewed Hope Agenda. According to the AON, under Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria’s aviation sector is experiencing a golden era of reform, policy clarity, and international relevance not seen in over two decades.

“We are confident that Minister Keyamo will bring the same level of innovation, excellence, and dedication to his new role at the BAG Council of Ministers, promoting regional cooperation and sustainable aviation development across West Africa,” the statement concluded.

The AON once again congratulated the Honourable Minister, stating, “The skies are indeed brighter with your leadership.”