Nigeria Re-elected to ICAO Council with Strong Mandate

Nigeria has been successfully re-elected to Part 2 of the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in Montreal, Canada, securing 163 votes out of 185 eligible voters. The election, held during ICAO’s 42nd Assembly, reaffirmed Nigeria’s critical role in international aviation governance. Nigeria joins eleven other countries including Egypt and South Africa from Africa, as well as nations such as Argentina, India, and Saudi Arabia, among the newly elected in Part 2, which is reserved for states making large contributions to international civil air navigation facilities.

Engr. Mahmoud Sani Ben-Tukur, Nigeria’s seasoned aviation expert and permanent representative to ICAO, was confirmed to take Nigeria’s seat on the council. Ben-Tukur brings over 30 years of experience in aviation maintenance, safety, and regulatory oversight and has held leadership positions including General Manager at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. This election ensures Nigeria’s continued influence in shaping global aviation safety, security, environmental protection policies, and advancing air connectivity on the continent.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who led Nigeria’s delegation to the voting sessions, expressed pride in the country’s re-election and highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing investments in aviation infrastructure modernization and regulatory reforms. Keyamo also underscored Nigeria’s active role in regional aviation safety oversight organizations and its commitment to environmental obligations under ICAO frameworks.

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This renewed mandate cements Nigeria’s position among the key contributors to the ICAO Council’s decision-making, where it will continue to promote and support advancements in international civil aviation, enhancing Nigeria’s stature in global and African aviation arenas.