The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for reappointing Honorable Festus Keyamo (SAN) as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
In a statement released by AON, the airline operators applauded the President’s decision, highlighting it as a testament to his commitment to advancing Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Honorable Keyamo, who was initially appointed to the position, has been praised for his remarkable leadership and his drive to revolutionize the aviation industry. The AON, through its president, Alhaji Abdulmunaf Yunusa Sarina, noted that the Minister’s efforts have resulted in positive transformations, fostering a business-friendly environment for airline operators.
“Under his stewardship, we have seen significant improvements in the aviation industry, and AON members are proud to affirm that we have never had it this good,” Sarina said.
The AON emphasised that Festus Keyamo’s proactive engagement with the aviation sector has restored confidence in the industry. His focus on safety and his commitment to improving both local and international airline operations have been particularly noteworthy.
One of the key achievements under Keyamo’s leadership has been Nigeria’s remarkable progress in aviation compliance, largely due to his commitment to the Cape Town Convention. This international agreement helps countries facilitate aircraft financing and leasing, enabling airlines to expand their fleets. The AON statement highlighted that, through his dedication, Nigeria’s aviation compliance rating improved from 40% to nearly 80%, a significant achievement in a short period.
“His work on implementing the Cape Town Convention has opened new doors for airlines, providing greater access to aircraft financing and leasing, which in turn has boosted operational capacities across the sector,” Sarina added.
The reappointment of Keyamo is seen as a strategic move by President Tinubu, ensuring the continuity of growth and innovation within the aviation industry. The AON lauded the President’s foresight in choosing a leader with the vision and capability to steer the sector toward further development.
“We believe that a government is judged by the caliber of individuals it appoints to critical positions, and in Festus Keyamo, the President has made an exceptional choice. His reappointment is a testament to the administration’s vision for excellence and progress in Nigeria’s aviation industry,” Sarina stated.
As the aviation sector continues to soar under Keyamo’s leadership, AON reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Minister and the government’s broader objectives for the industry. The association remains confident that Nigerian aviation will continue to thrive, becoming a model of excellence on the African continent.
“We pledge our full support to Hon. Keyamo as he leads us through this era of unprecedented growth and transformation. Together, we are confident that Nigeria’s aviation sector will continue to reach new heights, and we commend President Tinubu for his exceptional vision and leadership in ensuring the future of Nigerian aviation remains in capable hands,” the statement concluded.
With the reappointment of Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s aviation sector is expected to maintain its upward trajectory, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic development and regional leadership in air transport.
