Abuja, Nigeria – The African Development Bank (AfDB) has appointed Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, as Champion of its Integrated Aviation Transformation Programme for Africa (IATP), a $7 billion initiative aimed at overhauling the continent’s aviation sector.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, ahead of the AfDB Annual Meetings scheduled to hold in Brazzaville on May 28, 2026.
The appointment, according to the AfDB, reflects recognition of Nigeria’s growing leadership role in aviation reforms and policy direction, as well as confidence in Keyamo’s commitment to sectoral transformation across Africa.
As part of the programme, a Letter of Intent (LOI) between Nigeria and the AfDB is expected to be signed, formally positioning the country as a key participant in the continental initiative.
The Integrated Aviation Transformation Programme for Africa is designed to mobilise private, institutional, and concessional financing to modernise aviation infrastructure, improve connectivity, and strengthen airline competitiveness across the continent.
The AfDB noted that despite Africa accounting for nearly 18 percent of the global population, the continent currently represents less than three percent of global air traffic, highlighting the need for structural investment and reform.
Keyamo’s appointment is expected to provide leadership momentum for the initiative, which seeks to reposition Africa’s aviation industry as a stronger player in global air transport.
The Bank also commended the Nigerian minister for his contributions to ongoing aviation reforms and efforts to enhance operational standards within the sector.
