Adefunke Adeyemi has been re-elected as Secretary General of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) during the 35th Ordinary Plenary Session held in Brazzaville, Congo.
The Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation, Tunde Moshood, announced this in a statement on Thursday.
He highlighted the pivotal role played by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who attended the conference in Congo Brazzaville and led strategic diplomatic efforts to secure Adeyemi’s re-election.
“This is not just a victory for Nigeria but for the entire African aviation sector,” said Festus Keyamo, SAN, following the election. “Ms Adeyemi’s exceptional leadership and innovative vision have positioned AFCAC to deliver transformative progress across the continent. Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to AFCAC’s goals, including the realisation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).”
Nigeria’s Leadership in African Aviation
Adefunke Adeyemi’s re-election underscores Nigeria’s leadership in the African aviation landscape. She secured a decisive victory with 22 votes in her favour and seven against, reflecting widespread confidence in her leadership and achievements.
The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, played a central role in this outcome. Through strategic engagements with African Union member states, the Minister mobilised robust support for Adeyemi’s candidacy, bolstering Nigeria’s influence in shaping the continent’s aviation future.
An Election Commission was established to ensure transparency and fairness in the process, adhering to AFCAC’s Rules of Procedure for Plenary Meetings. The Commission, comprising representatives from various African Union regions, conducted a rigorous election. Nigeria, under Minister Keyamo’s leadership, was instrumental in garnering widespread support within the West African bloc and beyond.
AFCAC’s Mandate and Vision
As the specialised agency of the African Union for civil aviation, AFCAC oversees aviation matters across the continent and is the implementing body for the Yamoussoukro Decision (YD). Its primary focus is the execution of the Single African Air Transport Market, a project uniting 37 member states to enhance aviation competitiveness and connectivity across Africa.
Adeyemi’s Contributions and Vision
Ms Adeyemi’s re-election is a testament to her exceptional contributions to African aviation. Her tenure has been marked by groundbreaking initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency, safety, and collaboration in the sector.
With her renewed mandate, she is set to further advance AFCAC’s objectives, championing a unified and competitive air transport system for Africa. Her visionary leadership ensures that AFCAC will continue driving transformative progress in the region’s aviation industry.
A Proud Moment for Nigeria
This achievement highlights Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to strengthening Africa’s aviation ecosystem and fostering continental unity. It is a moment of pride, reaffirming the country’s leading role in shaping the future of aviation in Africa.
Tunde Moshood
Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development