The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN CON FCIArb (UK), has reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to regional aviation cooperation and development as he delivered the keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 18th Plenary Session of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.
Welcoming high-level delegates including Directors General of Civil Aviation from BAG Member States, representatives of international organisations, regional aviation bodies, airline operators and key stakeholders, the Honourable Minister conveyed warm greetings from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the Nigerian people, expressing deep appreciation for the participants’ presence.
Speaking on the significance of the gathering, the Aviation Minister emphasized that the achievements of BAG over the years are a reflection of the collective resolve to foster a safe, efficient, and sustainable aviation sector across the West African region. He highlighted milestone achievements such as the establishment of the Banjul Accord Group Aviation Safety Oversight Organisation (BAGASOO) headquartered in Abuja, and the Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA) located in Praia, Cape Verde—both of which have significantly strengthened aviation oversight and accident investigation across member states.
“These institutions have helped reinforce regional collaboration, harmonize regulatory frameworks, enhance capacity building, and improve operational standards—despite limited resources,” the Minister noted. “They have shown the world what regional cooperation can accomplish.”
Looking ahead, Keyamo called for the institutionalisation of the Banjul Accord Group to give it a structured, autonomous, and permanent framework capable of driving long-term objectives and enhancing regional competitiveness. “A structured BAG will serve as a beacon of excellence, guiding our aviation sector toward greater innovation and resilience,” he said.
The Minister also underscored the urgent need to fully implement the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), describing it as a bold and transformative vision aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063. He lamented the slow progress despite strong political commitments and called on member states to move from rhetoric to action.
“Our skies must no longer be defined by closed borders, but by open opportunity,” Keyamo declared, emphasizing that increased air connectivity remains vital for improving regional integration, economic development, and ease of movement for people and goods across the continent.
In his closing speech, the Honourable Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to the ideals of cooperation, safety, and integration within BAG and across the wider African aviation landscape. He formally declared the 18th Plenary Session open, charging delegates to work together in reshaping the future of air transport in Africa.
