Nigeria has officially confirmed its readiness to host the prestigious Airports Council International (ACI) Africa Regional Conference and Exhibition scheduled for September 2026 in the nation's capital, Abuja.
Minister Keyamo's Assurance
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has given Nigeria's full commitment to hosting what promises to be a world-class aviation event. During a meeting with the Secretary General of ACI Africa, Mr. Alli Tounsi, at his office in Abuja, Keyamo emphasized Nigeria's capacity and infrastructure readiness.
"We accept wholeheartedly to host. Nigeria has the capacity, the infrastructure, and the commitment to deliver a world-class conference. You can count on us," Keyamo declared during the meeting that took place on Monday.
Strategic Importance for African Aviation
The ACI Africa delegation, which included Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), received strong assurances about Nigeria's preparedness. Mr. Tounsi had specifically requested Nigeria to host the annual event, highlighting the country's strategic importance in African aviation development.
"Nigeria must host this next ACI Africa Regional Conference. BAGASSO is already in Nigeria, and it is only right that ACI Africa is here too," Tounsi stated, making a compelling case for Nigeria's selection as host nation.
Preparations Already Underway
FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Kuku, outlined several proactive measures being taken to ensure the event's success. Although the exact dates within September 2026 are yet to be finalized, comprehensive planning has already commenced.
"All hands are on deck. We are confident that we have ample time for comprehensive planning," Kuku affirmed. She revealed that FAAN has initiated discussions with a leading five-star hotel currently undergoing extensive renovations, with completion expected by April next year.
The hotel management has guaranteed that their facility upgrades will meet the standards required for this significant global aviation gathering.
Broader Aviation Sector Developments
In related aviation news, the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, has called for enhanced judicial support in understanding aviation contractual laws, particularly the Cape Town Convention (CTC).
Speaking at the international CTC moot court event held at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Najomo emphasized that the CTC has significantly improved Nigeria's standing with aircraft lessors and the broader aviation business community.
The well-attended event was organized by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the NCAA, with support from the Aviation Working Group (AWG).
