Bola Tinubu has welcomed Nigeria’s 91.45 per cent aviation safety rating awarded by the International Civil Aviation Organization, describing it as a major boost to investor confidence and the country’s global aviation standing.
According to a statement by his Special Adviser, Bayo Onanuga, the rating represents Nigeria’s highest-ever Effective Implementation score, surpassing both the West African regional average of 61.1 per cent and the global average of 70.4 per cent.
The President said the achievement reflects his administration’s focus on strengthening infrastructure and positioning the aviation sector as a key driver of economic growth through improved safety, security and efficiency.
He commended the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority for the milestone, noting that it enhances Nigeria’s appeal for investment in aviation infrastructure, maintenance and airline operations.
Tinubu also urged the ministry to sustain the progress by implementing all recommendations made during the ICAO audit to further improve safety standards.
The aviation minister, Festus Keyamo, had earlier outlined a five-point strategy aimed at strengthening the aviation value chain, with strict compliance with safety regulations as a top priority.
The ICAO, a United Nations agency, conducts safety assessments through its Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme to ensure member states effectively manage aviation safety risks and adhere to international standards.