(DDM) – Nigeria has intensified its preparations to host the Airports Council International (ACI-Africa) Regional Conference slated for September 2026.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the momentum grew after the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, met with the ACI-Africa Secretary General, Mr. Alli Tounsi, in Abuja to evaluate Nigeria’s readiness.
Their discussions focused on early planning, institutional coordination, and the nation’s ability to deliver a world-class international aviation gathering.
During the courtesy visit, Tounsi led a delegation that included senior officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
In attendance were FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Henry Agbebire, and Director of Commercials and Business Development, Mrs. Adebola Agunbiade.
Their presence underscored FAAN’s central role in coordinating logistics and ensuring the success of the upcoming ACI-Africa Regional Conference.
Tounsi emphasized Nigeria’s strong case as the 2026 host, noting the country’s influential leadership position within African aviation.
He explained that Nigeria already hosts BAGASOO and should naturally serve as a home for additional aviation bodies on the continent.
His remarks reflected continental confidence that Nigeria will deliver a distinguished and impactful event.
Responding, Minister Keyamo expressed confidence in Nigeria’s readiness to host the high-level meeting.
He assured the delegation that the country possesses the necessary infrastructure, institutional strength, and technical expertise required for a professional and seamless conference.
Keyamo stated that Nigeria sees the event as another opportunity to showcase its leadership in Africa’s growing aviation sector.
FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Kuku, provided a comprehensive update on Nigeria’s operational and logistical preparation.
She noted that although the exact dates would be confirmed later, Abuja has been proposed as the host city for the 2026 Regional Conference.
According to her, preparatory meetings have already commenced, with stakeholders collaborating to streamline logistics and secure suitable venues.
Kuku emphasized that early planning will enable Nigeria to exceed expectations and deliver a seamless aviation event.
She added that FAAN is currently in talks with a leading five-star hotel undergoing extensive renovations, which management has promised will be completed by April next year.
The upgraded facility is expected to offer the level of sophistication required for a global aviation gathering of this magnitude.
Kuku stressed that the timeline provides ample opportunity to refine Nigeria’s hosting strategy and ensure operational excellence.
The visit from ACI-Africa marks an important milestone in Nigeria’s aviation diplomacy and reinforces regional trust in the country’s capacity to host major industry events.
The 2026 Regional Conference is expected to attract airport operators, regulators, and aviation experts who will discuss key issues shaping Africa’s airport ecosystem.
Nigeria’s hosting rights further solidify its reputation as a key influencer in regional aviation development and policy dialogue.
As preparations advance, the Minister, FAAN leadership, and ACI-Africa officials will continue to collaborate closely to ensure the event achieves its objectives.
Their collective commitment highlights Nigeria’s ambition to position itself as a hub for aviation innovation, policy advancement, and high-level continental engagement.