The Federal Government has called on aviation operators across Africa to adopt transparent and responsible financial practices as part of their commitments under the Cape Town Convention, a key framework for sustainable aviation growth.

Speaking at the Cape Town Convention African event in Abuja, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, highlighted Nigeria’s progress, noting that the country’s global aviation rating under the Convention has increased to 75.5%, reflecting significant compliance with international aircraft financing standards.

“We must ensure the Cape Town Convention translates into lower financing costs, easier access to modern aircraft, improved investor confidence, and enhanced operational efficiency,” Keyamo said.

The event, organised by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the Aviation Working Group (AWG), and the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), brought together regulators, financiers, legal experts, and policymakers from across Africa.

Keyamo, represented by Dr. Anastasia Gbem, Director of Human Resources and Administration, emphasized the need for consistent enforcement and stakeholder education to maximise the benefits of the Convention, which has been ratified by 28 African countries. He noted that the treaty reduces credit risks, improves access to capital, and promotes sustainable aviation growth.

Capt. Chris Najomo, Director General of NCAA, represented by Donald Spiff, Director of Operations, Licensing and Training, explained that Nigeria’s compliance milestone is the result of years of regulatory reforms and judicial strengthening. He highlighted the Cape Town Convention Practice Directions, signed in September 2024, as a framework guiding the adjudication of aircraft financing cases in Nigerian courts.

“The Practice Direction serves as a tool for the Federal High Court in adjudicating aircraft financing matters, ensuring legal clarity and investor confidence,” Spiff said.

Jeffrey Wool, Secretary-General of the AWG, praised Nigeria as a “long-term and sustained partner” in implementing the Convention, describing it as “one of the most important commercial law frameworks in history” and noting that Nigeria’s example serves as a model for other African nations.

The event underscored Africa’s commitment to harmonising aircraft financing standards, fostering investment, and improving operational efficiency across the continent’s aviation sector.