Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, has received BusinessDay’s Excellence in Public Service Award, a prestigious recognition celebrating outstanding leadership, effective sector reforms, and notable contributions to national development. The public service honour highlights the minister’s sustained commitment to aviation transformation and his drive to establish a safer, more efficient, and globally competitive aviation system that supports long-term national goals. The focus on public service excellence also reflects the country’s growing expectations of responsible governance in critical sectors.
The award was presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yussuf Maitama Tuggar, during a grand event at The Blanc Event Hall in Abuja. The ceremony attracted industry leaders, senior public officials, and notable figures from various sectors. The aviation minister was represented by the Director General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., who received the plaque on his behalf. The strong representation at the event reinforced the importance of celebrating impactful contributions to public service at a time when national institutions continue to undergo significant reforms.
The seventh edition of the Excellence in Public Service Awards gathered respected personalities and high-ranking government officials. Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan featured among the distinguished guests, represented by former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim. The wide participation underlined a collective appreciation for sector leaders who demonstrate measurable progress and uphold values central to public service integrity. Several other government figures were also honoured for their work, including the Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yussuf Tuggar. Their recognition further emphasised the award programme’s commitment to identifying excellence across Nigeria’s public service landscape.
During the ceremony, BusinessDay Publisher Frank Aigbogun explained that the awards represent an annual effort to highlight ministers and agency heads who consistently pursue strong policies and engage stakeholders responsibly. He noted that achievements alone are not enough. Instead, the process behind each accomplishment remains crucial, particularly where transparency, evidence-based decision-making, and coalition-building shape long-term outcomes. This approach aligns with global public service standards and supports the nation’s broader development ambitions.
Aigbogun stressed that Nigeria faces significant economic pressures, yet many public officials continue to deliver meaningful results despite these challenges. He added that the winners demonstrate resilience, innovation, and determination, all of which are vital to modern public service leadership. He emphasised that individuals shaping critical sectors must remain focused on sustainable impact, especially in areas like aviation where safety, regulation, and operational standards directly influence national confidence. His remarks reflected the increasing demand for credible public service frameworks capable of supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The recognition of Festus Keyamo SAN reflects his progress in repositioning the aviation and aerospace sector. His tenure has placed strong emphasis on safety oversight, regulatory improvements, and strategic partnerships that enhance efficiency and strengthen Nigeria’s reputation within global aviation circles. Meanwhile, his reforms continue to support operational enhancements across airports, encourage sector accountability, and promote responsible governance in line with international standards. His efforts also highlight how public service leadership can shape national connectivity, economic growth, and long-term development.
In addition, the minister’s achievements align with current expectations for high-performing public service institutions. Stakeholders note that his approach to collaboration, implementation, and policy consistency strengthens confidence in government processes.
