Nigeria Sets Stage for ACI Africa Regional Conference as Aviation Minister Hosts Secretary General
Nigeria’s preparations to host one of Africa’s most significant aviation gatherings in 2026 gained fresh momentum on Monday as the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, received the Secretary General of Airports Council International (ACI) Africa, Mr Alli Tounsi, in Abuja.
The high-level visit, which included senior executives of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) – Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku; Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Henry Agbebire; and Director of Commercials and Business Development, Mrs Adebola Agunbiade – formed part of Nigeria’s strategic preparations to host the ACI Africa Regional Conference and Exhibition scheduled for September 2026.
Speaking during the meeting, Mr Tounsi underscored Nigeria’s central role in African aviation and its suitability as host for the forthcoming regional event. “Nigeria must host this next Acrobatics Regional Conference,” he affirmed. “BAGASSO is already in Nigeria, and it is only right that ACI Africa is here too.”
The statement, highlighting the country’s influence and existing aviation partnerships, resonated strongly with the Nigerian delegation.
Responding, Minister Keyamo expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in Nigeria and declared the country’s unwavering commitment to delivering a successful, world-class conference. “We accept wholeheartedly to host,” he said. “Nigeria has the capacity, the infrastructure, and the commitment to deliver a world-class conference. You can count on us.”
Providing updates on preparations, FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs Kuku, revealed that although the event is tentatively set for September 2026 with the final date yet to be announced, preliminary arrangements are firmly underway.
She disclosed that discussions have already commenced with a top-tier five-star hotel in Abuja currently undergoing extensive renovations.
“All hands are on deck,” she assured. “We are confident that we have ample time for comprehensive planning. The hotel management has assured us that their upgrades will be completed by April next year, and the facility’s standards will match the calibre of this global aviation event.”
The courtesy visit by the ACI Africa Secretary General marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s aviation diplomacy, reinforcing the nation’s status as an influential player in Africa’s aviation ecosystem.
It also signals the beginning of an intensive planning process geared towards hosting one of the most prestigious events in the African aviation calendar.
