AON Celebrates Keyamo’s Appointment as Chairman of BAG Council of Ministers, Hails Aviation Sector Reforms
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has warmly congratulated the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK), on his appointment as Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG), a coalition of seven West African nations united in advancing civil aviation across the sub-region.
In a statement jointly signed by the AON President, Alhaji Abdulmunaf Yunusa, and Vice President, Dr Allen Onyema, the association lauded the appointment as a fitting recognition of the Minister’s visionary leadership, strategic reforms, and relentless efforts to reposition Nigeria’s aviation sector as a model of excellence on the African continent.
“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.
Since assuming office, Keyamo has led a series of transformative initiatives that have reinvigorated Nigeria’s aviation industry.
These include reforms in regulatory frameworks concerning leased aircraft insurance, increased collaboration with the global Aviation Working Group, and initiatives that have significantly boosted investor confidence, aircraft financing, and ease of doing business for indigenous carriers.
AON highlighted milestones achieved under the Minister’s stewardship, such as the historic Lagos-to-London direct flight by Air Peace, and Nigeria’s prominent participation in the prestigious Aviation Finance Conference in Dublin—achievements that have elevated Nigeria’s profile on the global aviation map.
The association also praised Keyamo’s unwavering commitment to safety, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth, particularly his advocacy for infrastructure development and the successful implementation of the Cape Town Convention. These efforts, AON noted, have strengthened Nigeria’s standing in the international aviation community.
In addition to commending the Minister, AON expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his visionary leadership and for appointing capable individuals to strategic national positions.
According to the association, “The appointment of Festus Keyamo, SAN, is proof that when competent hands are entrusted with responsibility, the results speak for themselves.”
Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the association affirmed, Nigeria’s aviation sector is experiencing a renaissance marked by clear policy direction, institutional reforms, and growing international relevance—achievements unparalleled in over two decades.
AON expressed confidence that Keyamo will bring the same dedication and innovative spirit to his new role as Chairman of the BAG Council of Ministers, enhancing regional cooperation and driving sustainable aviation growth across West Africa.
“Once again, congratulations to our Honourable Minister. The skies are indeed brighter with your leadership,” the statement concluded.
