Nigeria has solidified its role as a pivotal force in African aviation with the re-election of Adefunke Adeyemi as Secretary General of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC). This announcement was made today during the 35th Ordinary Plenary Session held in Brazzaville, Congo, where Adeyemi received 22 votes in favor and seven against.
A statement from Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister, highlighted that Adeyemi’s re-election was significantly bolstered by the strategic diplomatic initiatives of Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
Keyamo underscored the significance of this achievement, stating that it represents not only a victory for Nigeria but also for the broader African aviation sector. He noted that Adeyemi’s leadership has introduced innovative solutions and a progressive vision for AFCAC, enabling the organization to drive transformative advancements throughout the continent.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria's unwavering commitment to supporting AFCAC's objectives and facilitating the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
Since her appointment as AFCAC Secretary-General in July 2022, Adeyemi has garnered recognition for her outstanding leadership and commitment to the advancement of African aviation. Her tenure has been characterized by initiatives aimed at improving air transport safety, enhancing cross-border collaboration, and fostering sustainable growth within the industry.
Adeyemi is set to continue advancing the objectives of AFCAC, enhancing the integration of the African aviation sector, and ensuring that Africa remains a leader in global aviation innovation.
The election process was conducted with complete transparency and fairness, supervised by an Election Commission in accordance with AFCAC’s Rules of Procedure for Plenary Meetings. This Commission, comprising representatives from various regions of the African Union, guaranteed that the voting was impartial.
AFCAC, as a specialized agency of the African Union, plays a crucial role in managing civil aviation issues throughout the continent. It also serves as the implementing body for the Yamoussoukro Decision (YD), which seeks to establish a unified air transport market in Africa.
AFCAC’s primary objective includes the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), a project designed to enhance aviation connectivity, efficiency, and competitiveness among 37 African member states.