Nigeria, Egypt Deepen Aviation Cooperation As Keyamo Meets Egyptian Counterpart At EIAS 2026

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo engaged in discussions with his Egyptian counterpart, Dr. Sameh El-Hefny, Minister of Civil Aviation of Egypt, during the El-Alamein International Airshow (EIAS 2026). The talks focused on improving air connectivity between Nigeria and Egypt, fostering cooperation between the two countries' civil aviation authorities, and expanding collaboration among airlines, airports, regulators, and other aviation stakeholders.

Keyamo highlighted the strategic significance of Nigeria-Egypt aviation relations, emphasizing the role of both nations in the African aviation landscape. He pledged Nigeria's dedication to enhancing international partnerships that would boost connectivity, tourism, trade, and airline growth while delivering value to passengers and the aviation industry.

Keyamo also urged EgyptAir to transition away from older aircraft and invest in newer-generation aircraft for Nigerian routes, stressing that fleet modernization is crucial for passenger experience, operational efficiency, and industry competitiveness. The Nigerian delegation expressed readiness to collaborate closely with Egypt's Ministry of Civil Aviation, particularly within the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and broader efforts to enhance intra-African air connectivity.

Dr. El-Hefny affirmed Egypt's commitment to bolstering aviation cooperation with Nigeria and stressed the importance of closer collaboration between the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and the League of Arab Civil Aviation (LACA). The ministers agreed to continue dialogue, strengthen institutional cooperation, and pursue initiatives that would benefit their aviation sectors.