Nigeria is strengthening its presence in global aviation as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, leads the country’s delegation to the International Civil Aviation Negotiation (ICAN) 2025 forum in the Dominican Republic.
The annual event, organized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), is the world’s largest platform for bilateral and multilateral air services negotiations, running from November 10 to 14.
According to a statement by the minister’s media adviser, Tunde Moshood, Nigeria’s participation aims to advance negotiations that will boost the country’s aviation industry and reinforce its growing reputation in global aviation diplomacy.
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Keyamo emphasized that Nigeria is committed to deepening partnerships, expanding market access for its airlines, and leveraging aviation as a driver for trade, tourism, and economic growth.
“Nigeria’s participation in ICAN 2025 demonstrates our dedication to positioning our nation as a serious global player in aviation,” Keyamo said. “We are building sustainable relationships that open new frontiers for our airlines and create pathways for mutual prosperity.”
Recent developments have positioned Nigeria’s aviation sector for renewed global engagement. Following the signing of the Cape Town Convention, the first dry-leased aircraft arrived in the country last week, signaling renewed trust among international lessors and investors.
At the forum, Nigeria engaged in Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) reviews and Memoranda of Understanding with several countries. Key discussions included requests from South Africa for fifth freedom traffic rights and approval for Airlink to operate the Cape Town–Lagos route alongside South African Airways.
Talks with Scandinavian countries—Sweden, Norway, and Denmark—focused on exchanging air service documents for further review, while discussions with Hong Kong and Tanzania centered on strengthening existing agreements to enhance connectivity and investment.
The Nigerian delegation included top officials such as Capt. Chris Ona Najomo, Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority; Ahmed Mohammed, Director of Air Transport Management; Sarah Okunade, Director of Legal Services; and Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs. Also in attendance were Toyin Olajide, Chief Operating Officer of Air Peace, and Charles Ararume, CFO of Arik Air.
At the event’s opening, the President of the Dominican Republic, Luis Rodolfo Corona, and outgoing ICAO Council President, Salvatore Sciacchitano, highlighted the importance of cooperation, sustainability, and equitable growth in shaping the future of global aviation.
