Accelerated Implementation of Single African Air Transport Market Emphasized by Aviation Minister

Strategic Insights -

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has called for the urgent implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) among African countries who have signed the agreement. Speaking on the opening ceremony of the 18th Plenary Session of The Banjul Accord Group (BAG) of States in Abuja, Keyamo emphasized the need for a Single African Air Transport Market to achieve the African Union's Agenda 2063 and unlock the potential of seamless air connectivity across the continent. Despite Africa's strong political will and numerous declarations, progress has been slow, and fragmentation remains a barrier to regional integration. Keyamo highlighted the importance of air connectivity, which improves the global competitiveness of cities, states, and regions, and urged member states to move beyond commitments and take coordinated steps toward making SAATM a living reality.

Key Takeaways:

  • Minister Festus Keyamo called for the accelerated implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) among African countries who have signed the agreement.
  • SAATM aims to achieve the African Union's Agenda 2063 and unlock the immense potential of seamless air connectivity across the continent.
  • Despite Africa's strong political will and numerous declarations, progress has been slow, and fragmentation remains a barrier to regional integration.
  • Air connectivity is an asset that improves the global competitiveness of cities, states, and regions.
  • Nigeria and other member states of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) have made significant progress in strengthening aviation safety, efficiency, and oversight in the region.
  • The BAG continues to serve as a beacon of sub-regional cooperation and has achieved significant milestones in ensuring a safe, secure, efficient, and environmentally responsible air transport sector.
  • The National Assembly of Nigeria is committed to the ideas of BAG and supports a harmonized West African aviation community.
  • The implementation of SAATM requires conscious efforts to address the issues of non-physical barriers, including the high cost of travel within the region.

Statistics:

  • 7 member countries of the BAG, including Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Gambia, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone, participated in the 18th Plenary Session.
  • 3-Day Plenary Session and Council of Ministers Meeting were hosted by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
  • Air travel is expected to become smoother and cheaper once SAATM is implemented, with reduced transit points and competitive prices.
  • The BAG has achieved significant milestones in aviation safety, efficiency, and oversight, including strengthening compliance with international best practices and harmonizing regulatory frameworks.

Sources:

  • Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo
  • Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)
  • Banjul Accord Group (BAG)
  • African Union's Agenda 2063
  • International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
  • Senate Committee Chairman on Aviation, Sen. Buhari Abdulfatai
  • Director-General Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo
  • Head of the BAG Secretariat, Fansu Bojang