Nigeria is ready to lead other African countries in reshaping and rebuilding the aviation industry to boost the region’s economy.

Musa Nuhu, the director-general of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), said this during his welcome address at the opening ceremony of the five-day 14th International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Air Services Negotiation event on Monday in Abuja.

”Advancing the aviation sector will improve connectivity among member states which can boost their social and economic activities like trade and tourism. Air travel shortens travel times between countries, thus improving global trade and tourism activities with the potential of accelerating the socio-economic growth and development of states,” stated Mr Nuhu.

The NCAA chief explained that since the establishment of this unique global negotiation event by ICAO in 2008, ICAO events “have provided participating states with a central congregating point” to conduct bilateral, regional or multilateral air services negotiations that result in air services agreements between member states.

Mr Nuhu said Nigeria would continue to support and advance the ideals and objectives of civil aviation, particularly in the African region, through the continuous support of and hosting of ICAO’s programmes and events.

“By providing better opportunities for enhanced regional and global air connectivity. As some of you may be aware, Nigeria successfully hosted the seventh AFI Aviation Week event here in Abuja in May of this year, with positive outcomes that would enhance the efficiency, safety and security of air transportation in the region,” the NCAA director-general added.

(NAN)