THE African Development Bank (AfDB) has appointed Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, as the Champion of the Integrated Aviation Transformation Programme for Africa (IATP).
The appointment was communicated in a letter signed on behalf of the bank by Mike Salawou, recognising Nigeria’s active involvement in the early stages of the continent-wide initiative aimed at transforming Africa’s aviation industry into a major catalyst for economic growth and regional integration.
According to the AfDB, the programme is designed to attract private and institutional investment, reduce risks associated with aviation financing, and strengthen connectivity across African countries through improved aviation infrastructure and systems.
The bank commended Nigeria for demonstrating strong commitment to the initiative, noting that the Federal Government had completed the IATP country survey, progressed work on the country compact, and identified viable aircraft financing opportunities within the country.
AfDB described Nigeria’s participation as exemplary, adding that the country is also exploring the creation of a Nigerian aviation financing platform that could support local airline operations and serve as a model for other African nations.
The bank while commending the leadership and vision of the Aviation Ministry under Keyamo, stated that this level of engagement positioned Nigeria among the leading champions of the programme,
As part of his new role, Keyamo has been invited to participate in a high-level side event during the 2026 Annual Meetings of the AfDB.
The session, titled “Platform Solutions for Africa’s Transformation: DeRisking Aviation and Health Systems through Innovative Finance,” is scheduled to hold on May 28, 2026, under the hosting of AfDB President Dr. Sidi Ould Tah.
The AfDB explained that Keyamo’s participation would provide an opportunity for Nigeria to present its aviation transformation agenda before development partners, institutional investors, airlines, and aviation regulators from across the continent and beyond.
The bank also noted that the minister would contribute to shaping the programme’s aircraft finance component, particularly ongoing efforts to establish a Nigerian aviation financing platform capable of supporting airline growth and aviation development across Africa.
According to the AfDB, Keyamo’s appointment is expected to strengthen partnerships, attract global investment into Africa’s aviation sector, and support deeper continental integration through improved air transport systems.
The bank further disclosed that Nigeria would participate in the signing of the IATP Nigeria Country Compact, describing the agreement as a significant milestone that formally establishes Nigeria as one of the programme’s founding country partners.
AfDB added that Nigeria’s early commitment to the initiative has already set a strong example for other African member states, expressing optimism that the country’s leadership role would inspire wider participation across the continent.
