By Chinelo Obogo
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, was at the weekend surrounded by aviation agency heads as he was named ‘Minister of the Year 2024’ by the Board of Editors of The Sun Newspapers.
This prestigious accolade marks his second major recognition within a week, highlighting his contributions to the nation’s aviation sector.
The award was presented by Ms Diana Chen, Chairman of CIG Motors Limited, during a grand ceremony held on Saturday, 1st March, in Lagos. The event drew a distinguished gathering of top executives from the corporate world, oil and gas industry, banking sector, and prominent political figures, all coming together to celebrate excellence across various fields.
Keyamo was joined by several high-ranking officials from the aviation industry who came to show him support, including Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development; Capt. Chris Najomo, Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA); Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN); and Prof. Charles Anosike, Director General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET). Also in attendance were numerous agency directors from NCAA and FAAN, overseeing key areas such as human resources, operations, public affairs, finance, and aviation security.
This latest recognition underscores Keyamo’s transformative leadership and the impactful reforms he has championed in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Since assuming office, he has spearheaded bold initiatives, driven infrastructure development, and fostered strategic partnerships aimed at positioning Nigeria as a leading global aviation hub.
The award not only celebrates Keyamo’s achievements but also solidifies his reputation as a visionary leader dedicated to reshaping Nigeria’s aviation landscape for the better.