Nigeria has secured re-election into Part 2 of the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the United Nations’ specialized agency responsible for promoting safe, secure, and sustainable global air transport.
The election took place at the ongoing 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada, where Nigeria’s representative, Mr. Ben Tukur, retained the country’s seat on the Council.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, Mr. Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, confirmed that Tukur polled 163 out of 185 votes, defeating 11 other African contenders.
Moshood noted that Nigeria’s re-election underscored the nation’s credibility in international aviation governance and reinforced its alliances within the ICAO community. He added that Nigeria will continue to work alongside other re-elected countries in Part 2 of the Council, including Egypt and South Africa.
Reacting to the development, Minister Keyamo described the victory as a “proud moment for Nigeria and Africa,” stressing that the outcome highlighted the resilience of Nigeria’s aviation diplomacy. He said the re-election affirms Nigeria’s commitment to aviation safety, security, and sustainability while ensuring Africa’s interests remain well represented in global policy-making.
The ICAO Council, which serves as the governing body of the organization, comprises 36 Member States elected for three-year terms. Its membership is divided into three categories:
- Part 1: countries with the greatest influence in global civil aviation, such as the U.S., China, France, and Germany.
- Part 2: nations, including Nigeria, that make significant contributions to international air navigation facilities.
- Part 3: countries chosen to ensure fair geographical representation across all regions of the world.