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Our skies must no longer be defined by closed borders, but by open opportunity,” declared Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo. He emphasized that increased air connectivity vital for Africa’s integration, economic advancement, and the seamless movement of people and goods across the continent.
Keyamo made this declaration while addressing delegates at the 18th Plenary Session of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG), held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja. The session attracted Directors General of Civil Aviation from BAG member states, airline operators, regional aviation organisations, and international stakeholders.
Delivering his keynote address, Keyamo warmly welcomed participants on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the Nigerian people. According to a statement signed by Special Adviser on Media to the Minister, Tunde Moshood, the Minister expressed deep appreciation for the delegates’ presence at such a critical gathering.
He stated that BAG’s achievements highlight what can be accomplished through regional cooperation and dedication to safety and innovation.
“These institutions have helped reinforce regional collaboration, harmonize regulatory frameworks, enhance capacity building, and improve operational standards—despite limited resources,” Keyamo noted.
He cited the Abuja-based Banjul Accord Group Aviation Safety Oversight Organisation (BAGASOO) and the Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA) in Praia, Cape Verde, as vital components of regional aviation growth. These agencies, he said, reflect Africa’s capacity to build independent aviation oversight systems.
Looking to the future, Keyamo advocated for the institutionalisation of BAG, pushing for a structured and autonomous framework. “A structured BAG will serve as a beacon of excellence, guiding our aviation sector toward greater innovation and resilience,” he stressed.
However, he expressed concern over the slow pace of implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), despite declarations of support by member states. He urged stakeholders to go beyond political rhetoric.
“The SAATM represents a bold and transformative vision aligned with Agenda 2063,” he said. “But its promises remain unmet unless we act decisively.”
He reiterated that increased air connectivity vital to driving Africa’s integration must become a shared reality, not just a policy goal. According to him, enhanced routes and liberal skies will attract investment and reduce travel costs.
Keyamo also called for sustained investment in aviation infrastructure, safety oversight, and personnel development. He urged all BAG members to commit to modernising regulatory systems and promoting open skies across Africa.
He closed his speech by declaring the 18th BAG Plenary officially open. He encouraged participants to collaborate deeply and chart a course that reshapes air transport for future generations.
The Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s enduring commitment to BAG’s ideals of unity, efficiency, and shared growth. He pledged continued support for all regional frameworks designed to boost African aviation.
Delegates will use the plenary to discuss critical aviation safety issues, assess progress on oversight mechanisms, and strengthen multilateral coordination. The forum serves as a platform for harmonising policies among West African states.
The Banjul Accord Group was established to promote cooperation among select African civil aviation authorities. Through agencies like BAGASOO and BAGAIA, it supports safety, investigation, and regulatory harmonisation in line with international standards.
With calls like Keyamo’s gaining traction, the momentum to unify Africa’s skies under one regulatory vision continues to grow stronger.
