Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has called for deeper collaboration among African nations to strengthen aviation safety, boost connectivity, and drive operational efficiency across the continent.
Speaking at the IATA Focus Africa Conference in Addis Ababa, the Minister said Africa is at a pivotal stage in its aviation journey, with significant untapped potential despite accounting for a relatively small share of global air traffic.
Addressing aviation leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders, including representatives of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Keyamo praised the conference theme, “Elevating Aviation Safety, Connectivity and Operational Efficiency in Africa”, describing it as central to unlocking sustainable industry growth.
“Africa, with over 1.4 billion people and a rising middle class, offers vast opportunities for aviation expansion. Our limited share of global traffic is not a setback, but a chance for innovation and growth”, he said.
Emphasising safety as the bedrock of aviation, the Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening regulatory frameworks, adhering to global standards, and enhancing partnerships with international bodies to ensure a resilient aviation system.
On connectivity, he highlighted the urgent need to improve intra-African air links to stimulate trade, tourism, and regional integration, aligning with initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area.
He urged African countries to dismantle barriers, harmonise policies, and fully implement open skies agreements.
Keyamo also stressed the role of operational efficiency in boosting competitiveness, pointing to infrastructure upgrades, digital transformation, improved air navigation services, and streamlined regulations as critical enablers.
“Efficiency goes beyond cost reduction; it enhances passenger experience and positions African aviation to compete globally”, he noted.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to partnerships, the Minister called on governments, industry players, and development partners to translate conference discussions into concrete, measurable outcomes.
He also commended Ethiopian Airlines for sponsoring the event and appreciated the Ethiopian government for its hospitality.
The conference continues to provide a key platform for shaping policies and driving the transformation of Africa’s aviation sector.
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