By Chinelo Obogo
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has lauded the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo on his appointment as Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG). The BAG is a seven-nation West African coalition dedicated to advancing civil aviation in the sub-region.
In a statement signed by AON’s President, Abdulmunaf Yunusa and Vice President,Allen Onyema, the body said the appointment is a testament to Keyamo’s leadership and dedication to repositioning Nigeria’s aviation sector. It said that since assuming office, Keyamo has been instrumental in championing significant reforms within the aviation industry which include revised regulations for leased aircraft insurance and Nigeria’s proactive engagement with the global Aviation Working Group. The AON said his efforts have “improved investor confidence, aircraft financing options, and ease of doing business for indigenous operators.”
The AON said that Keyamo, Nigerian airlines have achieved milestones, including Air Peace’s Lagos-to-London flight and Nigeria’s participation at the Aviation Finance Conference in Dublin. “Keyamo’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and sustainable growth is evident in his continuous push for infrastructure investment and his successful advocacy for the Cape Town Convention’s full implementation moves that have enhanced Nigeria’s international aviation standing,” AON said.
The AON expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, for “consistently demonstrating an exceptional ability to put round pegs in round holes.” The association said Keyamo’s appointment is “proof that when competent hands are entrusted with responsibility, the results speak for themselves.”