Nigeria has once again reaffirmed its dedication to the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The nation emphasized that enhanced air connectivity serves as a major catalyst for economic growth, trade expansion, and regional integration across the continent.
Minister Keyamo's Assurance
In a statement released yesterday by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the minister conveyed this commitment on the sidelines of the ongoing African Air Transport Convention and Expo 2026 in Lomé, Republic of Togo. Keyamo assured that Nigeria is fully committed to collaborating closely with other African nations and aviation institutions to promote policies and partnerships that will strengthen air transport, improve infrastructure, attract investment, and facilitate the seamless movement of people and goods across Africa.
According to Keyamo, improved air connectivity is essential to unlocking the vast economic potential of the continent and achieving the objectives of regional integration under both SAATM and AfCFTA.
High-Level Delegation
Keyamo also led a high-level Nigerian delegation to formally welcome former President Olusegun Obasanjo to the event. The convention brought together aviation policymakers, regulators, airline operators, industry leaders, and development partners from across Africa to discuss strategies for advancing air transport connectivity, sustainable aviation development, and regional integration.
Also present at the convention were Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Togo; President Paul Kagame of Rwanda; and other prominent leaders and stakeholders from across the continent and beyond.
Other Nigerian Delegates
The Nigerian delegation also included Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary-General of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC); Captain Juan “Boyo” Olubodun, SAATM Ambassador for West Africa; and Chris Najomo, Director-General of Civil Aviation.
