Adeyinka Iyanda MSc (Oxon)

Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister of Aviation & Aerospace Development on Public Private Partnerships ( PPPs)/ Infrastructure/Policy & Investment.

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

Yesterday, I was privileged to attend the National Day celebration of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Abuja. During his speech, the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Nigeria, His Excellency, Yousef Bin Mohammed Al-Balawi announced the start of direct flights from Abuja to Jeddah in December by SAUDIA AIRLINES, something we have all worked on for sometime now.

We are also pleased to note that, due to our continued insistence on deployment of newer aircraft by foreign airlines to the Nigerian route, SAUDIA AIRLINES, have unveiled the AIRBUS 321 XLR, the newest model of the AIRBUS family, to be deployed on the Abuja-Jeddah route.

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

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[Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria @FAAN_Official]

🚨 Registrations Now Open!
The ACI Africa Regional Conference & Exhibition is officially open for registration! 🌍✈️
Join aviation leaders, industry experts, regulators, and key stakeholders from across Africa and beyond as we converge in Abuja, Nigeria, to shape the future of African aviation.

📍 Location: Abuja, Nigeria
📅 Dates: 19–25 September 2026

What to expect:
✅ High-level networking with global aviation professionals
✅ Insightful discussions on emerging trends and industry challenges
✅ Showcasing of innovative solutions transforming airports and aviation
✅ Opportunities to collaborate and drive sustainable growth across the continent

This is where Africa’s aviation agenda takes shape.
🔗 Secure your place today:
visit: https://t.co/n1zavlX3HU...
Be part of the conversation. Be part of the transformation. Be part of the future of African aviation.
Hosted by FAAN!
#SeeyouinABUJA!

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

Yesterday, I held a bilateral meeting with my Egyptian counterpart, Dr. Sameh El-Hefny, Minister of Civil Aviation of the Arab Republic of Egypt, at the sidelines of the ongoing El Alamein International Airshow, in Al Alamein, Egypt.

We discussed areas of mutual interests to strengthen cooperation in the air transport sector. I used the opportunity to request that Egypt Air should deploy newer aircraft on their Nigerian route, both for their operations to and from Abuja and Lagos. We also agreed to look into our BASA and fine tune it to address present realities.

The meeting, which formed part of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to deepen international aviation partnerships, focused on enhancing collaboration between both countries in areas critical to the growth and development of civil aviation.

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

Earlier today, I had the distinct honour of receiving the “Minister of the Decade” Award at the Daily Times Centenary Celebration. It was part of the activities planned to mark 100 years of the Daily Times group in Nigeria.

The award plaque was presented to me by His Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha. He was supported on stage by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ọjájá II, CFR and former President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, CON

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Aviation and all the heads of the Aviation Agencies attended the event and accompanied me to receive the award.

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

Yesterday, I received a delegation from the Lufthansa Group in my office in Abuja, with discussions centred on strengthening the Nigeria-Germany aviation relations, the review and ratification of the existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), and plans by the German aviation group to further expand its operations in Nigeria.

The delegation comprised Alexandra Dietzen-Zill, Senior Manager, Aeropolitical Relations & Traffic Rights, Lufthansa Group, and Walid Mahmud, Sales Executive, Lufthansa Technik, Aero Alzey.

A major focus of the meeting was the existing BASA between Nigeria and Germany, which was signed in 2010. We agreed that the BASA is due for ratification and updating to reflect the current realities of the aviation relationship between both countries and we worked out the modalities to immediately begin work on it.

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

Today in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates, I had the privilege of engaging the leadership of Etihad Airways on the next chapter of Nigeria–UAE aviation relations.

Our discussions focused on the final steps towards the commencement of Etihad’s daily Abu Dhabi–Lagos service from March 18, 2027, and, importantly, on how we can build a broader strategic partnership around connectivity, investment, training, technology and cargo.

I also visited Etihad Aviation Training and Zayed International Airport to explore opportunities for capacity building and import other ideas from Abu Dhabi’s world-class aviation ecosystem.

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

The NCAA Press Statement on the ongoing industrial action

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

Thursday, 6th August, 2026

Canadian, Embassy, Abuja

PRESS RELEASE

NIGERIA, CANADA SIGN EXPANDED AIR TRANSPORT AGREEMENT FOR DIRECT FLIGHTS, TRADES AND CONNECTIVITY

In a landmark step towards strengthening bilateral aviation relations and expanding economic cooperation, the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Government of Canada have signed an expanded Air Transport Agreement that will, for the first time, permit direct scheduled air services between both countries.

The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK), was represented at the signing ceremony by the Director of Air Transport Management, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Mohammed Ahmed Tijjani, who joined the Canadian Chief Air Negotiator for Global Affairs, Ms. Shendra Melia, at the High Commission of Canada in Abuja to formalize the historic agreement.

The signing followed an extensive Nigeria–Canada Air Transport Expansion Technical Review Worksession, during which both delegations reviewed the existing Bilateral Air Services framework and reached a consensus that culminated in the signing of the Agreed Minutes.

The Nigerian delegation comprised Mr. Mohammed Ahmed Tijjani, Director, Air Transport Management; Mrs. Jummai Yahaya, Esq., Director, Legal Services, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development; Mrs. Olayinka Babaoye-Iriobe, Director, Air Transport Regulation, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), alongside other senior government officials.

The Canadian delegation was led by Ms. Shendra Melia, Chief Air Negotiator for Global Affairs Canada, and included Mr. Jathorsan Lingarajan, Trade Policy Officer, Global Affairs Canada, and Mr. Steven Worth, Manager and Senior Policy Advisor, Transport Canada, among other officials.

The expanded agreement marks a significant milestone in the aviation relationship between Nigeria and Canada. It introduces several important enhancements designed to improve connectivity, promote tourism, facilitate trade, and create new opportunities for airlines and businesses in both countries.

Key highlights of the expanded Air Transport Agreement include:

- The right for Nigeria and Canada to designate multiple airlines to operate scheduled air services between the two countries.
- A capacity allowance of 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights for the designated airlines of each country.
- The granting of Fifth Freedom Traffic Rights for all-cargo operations, allowing cargo airlines to transport freight between two foreign countries, provided the service originates or terminates in the airline's home country.

The agreement is expected to significantly enhance air connectivity between Nigeria and Canada by paving the way for the commencement of direct flights, thereby reducing travel time, improving passenger convenience, lowering logistics costs, and strengthening commercial and cultural ties between both nations.

The development is particularly significant given the growing people-to-people relationship between Nigeria and Canada. As of 31 March 2026, more than 25,000 Nigerians hold valid Canadian study permits, making Nigeria one of Canada's major international student source countries. The enhanced aviation framework is expected to further support educational exchanges, tourism, business travel, investment, and family reunification.

The Nigeria–Canada Air Transport Agreement was originally negotiated in 2014 as a code-share-only arrangement and formally signed in March 2025. The current agreement represents the first major expansion of the bilateral air services framework since its negotiation over a decade ago.

Tunde Moshood
Special Adviser on Media and Communications
to the Honourable Minister

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

Last Thursday, I received in audience a delegation from Etihad Airways in the UAE led by Captain Khalid Humaid Al Ali – Senior Vice President, Aeropolitical, International & Government Affairs. He was accompanied by Asma Khalifa Al Mheiri, Head of Aeropolitical and Industry Affairs and Mouza Khadem Al Ghaithi – Diplomatic Affairs Manager.

I was joined by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, the DG of the NCAA, the MD of FAAN, the MD of NAMA and other senior Directors of the Ministry.

We discussed in details the resumption of flights by Etihad Airways from Nigeria to Abu Dhabi, most likely by the first quarter of 2027. I also acknowledged the code-share agreement it has signed with AIRPEACE, describing it as a positive development for our biggest local operator and flag carrier.

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

Earlier in the week, I played host to the Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Mission to Nigeria, Mr. Keith Heffern. He was accompanied by Ms Pamela Hack, the Country Consular Head for the United States Mission in Nigeria.

I was joined by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, the DG of the NCAA, the MD of FAAN, the MD of NAMA and other senior Directors of the Ministry.

We discussed how the aviation industries in the US and Nigeria can cooperate in several ways that can be mutually beneficial to both countries. The US delegation commended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for some of the positive strides in the aviation sector and pledged their continued cooperation with the Nigerian Government in advancing the sector.

[Gbenga Saka @gbengasaka]

The Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development @fkeyamo just wrapped up a landmark visit to @Bombardier in Montréal, Canada. Completing a full circuit of engagements with the world's biggest aircraft makers: @BoeingAirplanes ✅ @Airbus ✅ @embraer ✅ @Bombardier

The goal: stronger Nigerian airlines, better access to financing, real technology transfer, and to position Nigeria as Africa's aviation gateway.

A promise made in 2023. A promise delivered in 2026. #RenewedHopeAgenda @officialABAT

Read more in the link below 👇
https://t.co/1aYUdmkY8w

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

Keyamo signs off Enugu Airport for concession  https://t.co/1eoVBa7U6i

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

In my new role as the African Champion of the Integrated Aviation Transformation Programme (IATP) of the African Development Bank (AFDB), this morning in Brazzaville, Congo, I attended a dialogue session with the President and Governors of the AFDB where I addressed them on the opportunities presented by the $7 billion program of the IATP for Africa and especially for Nigeria.

I unveiled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the Aviation sector and rolled out the potentials of the sector, especially the newly approved Nigeria Aircraft Leasing Company and why the Bank should mobilise capital to support it. I explained that this can form the template for other African Nations to emulate. I reiterated that Nigeria has done the groundwork to enable the takeoff of such an initiative, including domesticating the Cape Town Convention, updating its IDERA and reworking its aviation insurance policies to meet global industry standards.

The President of AFDB expressed delight at the presentation and gave his commitment to the success of the IATP in Africa and particularly in Nigeria.

After the session, I unveiled the COUNTRY COMPACT for Nigeria’s Aviation sector and proceeded to a signing ceremony of a LETTER OF INTENT (LOI) between the Bank and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, where both sides committed to work assiduously to operationalise the Banks’s laudable program for Aviation in Africa (IATP).

[Gbenga Saka @gbengasaka]

https://t.co/T5bo89P7nb

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

Correct

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

Yesterday, the Federal Executive Council presided over by Mr. President approved my memo to end the 20-year old dispute between the Federal Government and Bi-Courtney Ltd over MM2 Airport in Lagos. For more than one year, we were locked in negotiations on how to get out of the impasse. These are just the highlights:

* Bi-Courtney wrote off the N132 billion court-assessed damages against the Federal Government.

* Bi-Courtney handed back MMI Airport (the old local Terminal) which the Supreme Court ordered to be handed over to it.

* Bi-Courtney gave up its right to exclusively run any private or domestic airport in and around Lagos State as affirmed by the courts.

* Bi-Courtney agreed to commence the payment of Concession fee due and payable under the Concession Agreement dated 24th April 2003 from when the settlement agreement is executed. Because of the dispute, the Federal Government has also lost its own part of the revenue for nearly 20 years.

In exchange for the above, the Federal Government agreed to the following:

* FG also wrote off all the concession fees Bi-Courtney has not paid since the concession agreement was signed nearly 20 years ago due to the disputes.

* FG returned the uncompleted hotel and conference centre opposite the airport (which it has previously revoked) to Bi-Courtney to complete and operate within 24 months and from which the FG will have its own share.

* FG agreed to move regional flights to MM2 (which had been approved, but not operational for years now) to the extent of its capacity.

* FG agreed to give Bi-Courtney more land space to expand the apron of MM2 to accommodate more airplanes.

Below was my press briefing after the meeting of the Federal Executive Council meeting:

[Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK) @fkeyamo]

FG, Bi-Courtney resolve 20-year MM2 dispute https://t.co/xFj2302GoZ

[Presidency Nigeria @NGRPresident]

Aviation Milestone: First Direct São Paulo–Nigeria Flight

✈️🇳🇬🤝🇧🇷

Speaking during the inaugural flight, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, highlighted the significance of the new direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil. He noted that a journey which previously took nearly 20 hours through Europe or the Middle East will now be shortened with direct flights operated by Air Peace, which deployed a Boeing 777 to kick off the test flight. He also disclosed that Air Peace has ordered 21 Embraer jets from Brazil, further deepening trade and aviation ties between both nations.

Allen Onyema, Chairman/CEO of Air Peace, commended President Tinubu and the ministers for their leadership, saying:
“The President has opened the door of the future for Nigeria. Instead of committing two days to travel to Brazil, we now have direct access to South America’s largest economy — just as Nigeria leads in Africa. We need each other, and this partnership will bring immense opportunities.”

Kudos to President Tinubu for championing this milestone under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

#RenewedHopeAgenda #NigeriaBrazil #AirPeace #Aviation #EconomicDiplomacy

[Akwa Ibom State Govt @aksgovt]

airport facilities by Governor @_PastorUmoEno, the Minister commended past Governors for the huge investments in aviation development.

“The maintenance, repairs and overhaul facility is the first ever in the country and will service the whole of Nigeria, West Africa,