FG seeks implementation of liberalisation of market access for African air transport

The federal government is seeking a speedy implementation of the full Yamoussoukro decision on the liberalisation of access to air transport markets in Africa.

Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the liberalisation of the access market is crucial for the long-term vision of the African Union.

Aviation stakeholders are currently celebrating the 24th anniversary of the Yomoussoukro Decision (YD) in Abuja with the theme Africa Wants to Fly.

At the event, the Minister explained that the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) would also reduce the continent’s trade deficit by 51 per cent.

He further stated that statistics from the Africa Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) have shown that 37 member states have so far subscribed to unconditionally implement the YD and SAATM, with 23 states signing the Memorandum of Implementation (MoI) for their operationalization.

Keyamo said the record also shows that these 37 states account for more than 88 per cent of intra-African traffic and more than 800 million people in Africa.

The Minister expressed Nigeria’s commitment to the full implementation of SAATM through the SAATM-Project Implementation Pilot, directing that all bilateral air services agreements (BASA) with African countries that are signatories to SAATM be reviewed in line with the provisions of the Yamoussoukro Decision and the principles of reciprocity.

“My distinguished delegates, let us embrace the theme, “Africa Wants to Fly,” not merely as words but as a call to action, a call to reach for the stars, and a call to make our dream for the full realisation of SAATM come true.”

On his part, the Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Capt. Musa Nuhu, called for a single regulatory agency and a single policy for Africa, as it’s experienced in Europe, for more seamless operations.

“The YD Week will also encourage African Airlines to take full advantage of the benefits of SAATM and expand their operations across Africa. Air connectivity is an asset that improves the global competitiveness of cities, states, and regions.

“Increased air connectivity brings concrete value by making trips shorter with optimal user satisfaction at minimum prices.

“We know that YD/SAATM would enhance connectivity by removing barriers and restrictions on air travel between African countries,” he stated.

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