The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), under the leadership of Director-General Capt. Chris Najomo, represented the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, at the 26th Anniversary of the Yamoussoukro Decision (YD) held on November 13, 2025, in the Dominican Republic. The event gathered aviation leaders from across Africa to evaluate progress on regional air transport liberalization and chart a path for enhanced connectivity within the continent.
In his address, Capt. Najomo highlighted pressing issues affecting African aviation, including the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), the exercise of Fifth Freedom rights, and the urgent need to reduce airfares across West Africa to spur economic growth and facilitate regional trade.
Reflecting on recent reforms, Capt. Najomo shared that Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states are actively removing market asset restrictions and frequency caps among underperforming carriers. “We are opening doors and strengthening our influence in the regional aviation sector,” he stated. “This framework ensures clear incentives for code-sharing, joint ventures, and coordinated schedules among existing regional airlines, paving the way for smoother, more efficient travel.”
The reform discussions, which took place via virtual ministerial meetings and coordination sessions in Uganda and Ghana, aim to establish a robust Air Carrier Development Framework. This framework is designed to harmonize operations across states, fast-track joint operating platforms, and address connectivity challenges, ultimately bringing down operational inefficiencies that have hindered regional growth.
Capt. Najomo emphasized that these measures are not just about regulatory changes—they are about creating tangible benefits for passengers and businesses. “By aligning policies and fostering collaboration among carriers, we are making travel across West Africa easier, faster, and more affordable,” he said.
Officials also noted that since Nigeria adopted these reforms, the country has witnessed increased engagement from regional carriers and other international operators, signaling a growing confidence in West Africa’s aviation potential.
As the region continues to embrace policy coordination and operational integration, stakeholders remain optimistic that these reforms will catalyze economic development, strengthen intra-African trade, and make West Africa a leading hub for efficient, connected air transport.
Nigeria pushes for regional air travel reforms at 26th Yamoussoukro Decision Anniversary, removing market restrictions and boosting connectivity across West Africa.
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