Aviation and Minister of Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo is calling on African countries to take concrete steps towards implementing a single African air transport market, beyond mere policy declarations.
He announced this at a three-day plenary session and ministerial meeting hosted by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority in Abuja on Monday.
He said, “I would like to emphasize the urgent need to implement a single African air transport market. Despite our strong political will and numerous declarations, progress is slow and fragmentation remains a barrier to our regional integration.”
“Our sky must be defined by open opportunities, not by closed boundaries anymore,” he added.
The Minister reiterated the importance of the bag framework in advancing aviation standards and regional integration.
“Today's gathering is a testament to our collective commitment to strengthening aviation safety, security and economic development in member states.”
He highlighted the milestones achieved by the group, including the transition of Coscap-Bag to Bagasoo and the establishment of Bagaia.
“It is heartwarming to say that through these organizations a lot has been achieved in the region, ensuring compliance with international best practices and strengthening regional cooperation.
Keyamo has called for the institutionalization of bags to provide more effective long-term goals. “It's time to institutionalize bags and transform them into permanent, fully structured entities. Structured bags act as beacons of excellence, leading the aviation sector to increased efficiency, innovation and competitiveness.”
In his closing remarks, the legal brilliance reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to regional cooperation. “I would like to reaffirm Nigeria's unwavering commitment to the Banjul Accord Group and its ideals of cooperation, security and integration.”
Also at the Plenary Conference, Colonel Chris Najomo, Director of Civil Aviation Nigeria, stressed his pride in the Nigerian Conference's claims and acknowledged Bag State's collective efforts to strengthen safety, regulatory harmony and sustainable aviation.
“Your presence here reaffirms our common commitment to aviation safety, security, regulatory harmony and sustainable development throughout our region,” he pointed out.
Colonel Najomo recalls the establishment of major regional aviation agencies, reflecting the historical roots of cooperation.
“He said that fateful day may be remembered when the heads of civil aviation in Seven Bag State signed contract documents regarding the establishment of Bagasse Soo and Bagasseia.
He praised the rapid establishment of these institutions as a testament to the region's dedication. “The fact that the entire process of developing these framework documents took less than five months was an astonishing feat in itself, and we appreciated the level of commitment the Bag State exhibited.”
With the goal of the future, Najomo addressed the ongoing challenges and sought joint solutions. “This entire 18th episode not only reflects our collective outcomes, but also serves as an opportunity to focus on future challenges, focusing on infrastructure gaps, safety risks coming from the short-term staffing stages, and the essential challenges of digital transformation in aviation.”
He added that the bag remains a “beacon of regional cooperation” and emphasized the importance of unity.
“Use this platform to be openly involved, share experiences and align your efforts with a spirit of unity and purpose,” he concluded.
