Nigeria’s influence in African aviation continues to grow as Adefunke Adeyemi secures a second term as Secretary General of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC).
Her re-election underscores her leadership in driving the continent’s aviation development and policy initiatives.
According to dailyafricantimes.com, her victory, announced during the 35th Ordinary Plenary Session held in Brazzaville, Congo, saw her secure a commanding 22 votes to seven, underscoring the trust and confidence of AFCAC member States in her visionary leadership.
Nigeria’s Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, played a pivotal role in the re-election campaign.
According to a statement from the Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Minister, Tunde Moshood, Keyamo ‘s strategic diplomatic engagements with African Union (AU) member States galvanised support for Ms Adeyemi, solidifying Nigeria’s influence in shaping the future of African aviation.
READ: Africa: Aviation Bodies, AFRAA, AFCAC, AUC To Hold workshop on SAATM Regulatory Instrument
Speaking on the achievement, Minister Keyamo said, “This is not just a win for Nigeria but for the entire African aviation industry. Ms Adeyemi’s outstanding leadership and innovative vision have positioned AFCAC to deliver transformative progress across the continent.
“Nigeria remains committed to driving the goals of AFCAC and ensuring the realisation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).”
The election process adhered to AFCAC’s Rules of Procedure for Plenary Meetings, with an independent Election Commission ensuring transparency and fairness.
The Commission comprised representatives from various AU regions, and Nigeria’s leadership within the West African bloc was instrumental in garnering widespread support for Ms Adeyemi’s candidacy.
As the specialised agency of the AU overseeing civil aviation, AFCAC plays a crucial role in implementing the Yamassoukro Decision (YD) and advancing the Single African Air Transport Market.
The initiative, which unites 37 member States, aims to enhance the continent’s aviation competitiveness and connectivity.
Ms Adeyemi’s first tenure as Secretary General was marked by groundbreaking initiatives that strengthened aviation safety, efficiency, and collaboration across Africa.
Her re-election is seen as a reaffirmation of her ability to foster integration and sustainable growth in the industry.
With her renewed mandate, Ms Adeyemi is poised to lead AFCAC in furthering its objectives, ensuring a robust and unified African air transport system.
Her leadership continues to position AFCAC as a driver of transformative progress in the region’s aviation sector.
This milestone underscores Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to strengthening Africa’s aviation ecosystem and fostering unity across the continent.
It also reflects the country’s dedication to enhancing the operational capacity of AFCAC and achieving the broader goals of the AU.
The re-election of Ms Adeyemi is not just a victory for Nigeria but a testament to Africa’s collective vision for a competitive and interconnected aviation industry.
