Nigeria has secured re-election to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council, earning a three-year seat in the Part II category for countries that significantly contribute to international civil air navigation facilities. The announcement came on September 27, 2025, during the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montréal, Canada, where Nigeria’s candidate, Mahmoud Ben-Tukur, won 163 out of 185 votes against 11 other African contenders.
The ICAO Council, the organization’s 36-member governing body, oversees global aviation policies, standards, and strategies focused on safety, sustainability, and inclusivity. Membership falls into three parts: Part I for major air transport players like the U.S., China, and France; Part II for navigation facility providers, where Nigeria joins Argentina, Colombia, Denmark, Egypt, India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, and Switzerland; and Part III for geographic representation, with elections set for September 30, 2025.
Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Managing Director Olubunmi Kuku hailed the win as a vote of confidence in Nigeria’s aviation leadership, crediting Minister Festus Keyamo for bolstering the country’s global profile. “This seat lets us sync local reforms with world-class standards in safety, security, infrastructure, and eco-responsibility,” Kuku said, vowing to push Nigeria as West Africa’s aviation hub through better airports, operations, and passenger services. She also congratulated Egypt and South Africa, noting stronger African voices on the Council will boost the continent’s role in aviation innovation and connectivity.
ICAO, a UN agency with 193 members, aims for zero aviation fatalities and net-zero emissions while expanding air access worldwide. Nigeria, a Council member since 1962, continues to shape these goals through infrastructure upgrades and regional partnerships.
