The African Development Bank has appointed Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, as the African Champion for its newly introduced $7 billion Integrated Aviation Transformation Programme for Africa (IATP).
The appointment was formalised during the signing of a Letter of Intent held in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, where both parties outlined plans for deeper collaboration on aviation development across the continent.
According to Keyamo, the role places Nigeria at the centre of a continental effort to modernise air transport systems, expand connectivity, and strengthen aviation infrastructure across Africa. He described the assignment as a major responsibility aimed at driving long-delayed reforms in the sector.
He explained that the IATP is designed to attract about $7 billion in funding from private investors, development partners, and concessional sources, with the goal of upgrading airports, improving safety standards, and enhancing operational efficiency within African aviation.
“This goes beyond an honorary title; it is a call to deliver real change in how aviation works across Africa,” the minister said, stressing that the initiative would help reposition the continent within global air transport networks.
Keyamo noted that his selection reflects recognition of Nigeria’s ongoing aviation reforms and the government’s commitment to repositioning the sector for greater efficiency and investment appeal.
He further highlighted the gap in global air traffic distribution, noting that although Africa accounts for a significant share of the world’s population, its contribution to global aviation activity remains disproportionately low, a situation the programme seeks to address.
Under the initiative, Keyamo is expected to lead policy coordination among African states, drive advocacy for investment, and support implementation of projects aimed at modernising airports and improving regional air connectivity.
He added that Nigeria would serve as a key reference point for the programme, leveraging its market size and reform efforts to attract early-stage investments.
Reaffirming his acceptance of the role, Keyamo said the mission represents a broader African ambition to achieve world-class aviation standards and eliminate barriers to seamless air travel across the continent.