Nigeria set to lead Africa to restructure, rebuild aviation sector – NCAA DG

Nigeria is ready to lead other African countries in reshaping and rebuilding the aviation industry to boost the economy of the region.

Capt. Musa Nuhu, the Director-General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), made this known during his welcome address at the opening ceremony of the five-day 14th International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Air Services Negotiation event on Monday in Abuja.

"Advancing the aviation sector will improve connectivity among member states, which can boost their social and economic activities like trade and tourism."

"Air travel shortens travel times between countries, thus improving global trade and tourism activities with the potential of accelerating the socio-economic growth and development of states."

"Since the establishment of this unique global negotiation event by ICAO in 2008, ICAN events have provided participating states with a central congregating point to conduct bilateral, regional, or multilateral air services negotiations that result in Air Services Agreements between member states."

"In addition, it provides a global stage for networking opportunities for policymakers, regulators, service providers, and other industry stakeholders," he said.

Nuhu said Nigeria will continue to support and advance the ideals and objectives of civil aviation, particularly in the African region, through the continuous support of and hosting of ICAO's programs and events.

He expressed optimism that the agreements signed, the arrangements made, and the knowledge and ideas exchanged after the meeting would further facilitate the recovery of the industry from the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"By providing better opportunities for enhanced regional and global air connectivity,

"As some of you may be aware, Nigeria successfully hosted the 7th AFI Aviation Week event here in Abuja in May of this year, with positive outcomes that would enhance the efficiency, safety, and security of air transportation in the region.

"At this juncture, I wish to express my appreciation and thanks to the honorable Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, and his team for the unflinching support during the preparations for the hosting of this ICAN event," he said.

The NCAA boss acknowledged the contributions and support of the aviation agencies towards ensuring a successful hosting of ICAN 2022 and thanked the ICAO team and the local organizing committee for working tirelessly to put the event together.

Supreme reports that so far, more than a total of 160 states have participated in and benefited from ICAN at least once.

ICAN2022 will provide States, either on-site or participating remotely, with a central meeting place to conduct bilateral, regional, or plurilateral air services negotiations and consultations, as well as networking opportunities for policymakers, regulators, air operators, service providers, and other stakeholders.