Abuja Clinches Hosting Rights as ACI Africa Marks Symbolic Leadership Handover for 2026 Conference

A powerful display of continuity and regional cooperation unfolded at the ACI Africa Conference, where aviation leaders formally passed the baton to Nigeria, confirming Abuja as host city for the 2026 edition scheduled for September 15–16.
The symbolic handover, which underscored ACI Africa’s tradition of shared leadership among member states, saw Ali Tounsi, Secretary General of Airports Council International (ACI) Africa, present the official conference token to Olubunmi Kuku of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), signifying Nigeria’s assumption of hosting responsibilities.
The moment was further enriched by the facilitation of N’Jinga Nerica Pimentel Pitta-Grós of Sociedade Gestora de Aeroportos, Angola, whose role highlighted the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and collaborative governance across the continent’s aviation ecosystem.
The ceremony, attended by key industry stakeholders, reflected a broader commitment to strengthening Africa’s aviation sector through knowledge exchange, infrastructure development, and policy alignment. It also reinforced growing confidence in Nigeria’s capacity to host major continental aviation events, particularly in Abuja, its administrative and diplomatic hub.
Stakeholders described the transition as more than a ceremonial exchange, but a reaffirmation of ACI Africa’s long-term vision of unity, sustainability, and coordinated growth within the aviation industry.
With Abuja set to welcome delegates in 2026, expectations are already high that the conference will serve as a critical platform for discussions on airport modernization, aviation financing, regulatory reforms, and enhanced air connectivity across Africa.
The symbolic baton pass closed on a note of solidarity, with industry leaders emphasizing that Africa’s aviation ambitions can only be fully realized through sustained collaboration and continuity among member nations.
ACI Africa has officially handed over hosting rights of its 2026 Conference to Abuja, Nigeria, in a symbolic ceremony led by aviation leaders, marking continuity, collaboration, and shared leadership across the continent.
ACI Africa formally hands Abuja hosting rights for the 2026 Conference in a symbolic baton pass ceremony, highlighting unity, leadership continuity, and Africa’s aviation growth agenda.