…amid renewed calls for institutional reform
West African aviation authorities are taking steps to institutionalize a permanent regional aviation oversight body as leaders from the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) met in Abuja, Nigeria, for the group’s 18th plenary session.
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in his keynote address, declared the meeting open with a firm call for BAG to evolve into a fully structured, permanent entity with autonomous operations.
He emphasized that this transformation is essential to sustain gains in aviation safety and efficiency made over the years by member states.
“We must transform BAG into a permanent and fully structured entity capable of sustaining and expanding its impact,” Mr. Keyamo said, urging delegates to support the shift. The minister added that institutionalization would provide a stronger governance framework, and the resources needed for long-term success.
The Banjul Accord Group—a partnership of West African states aimed at enhancing aviation safety and regulatory oversight—has made major strides through its affiliated institutions, including the BAG Aviation Safety Oversight Organization (BAGASOO) based in Abuja, and the BAG Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA) in Praia, Cape Verde.
These bodies have served as technical backbones for improving airworthiness and accident investigation protocols across the region.
Mr. Keyamo praised the role of these agencies in aligning the region’s aviation standards with international benchmarks.
According to him, regional cooperation has allowed West African states to punch above their weight in global aviation despite limited financial resources. However, he warned that further progress depends on deepened commitment and stronger institutional frameworks.
Delegates also renewed focus on the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), a flagship initiative of the African Union intended to liberalize intra-African air services.
Mr. Keyamo called SAATM a “bold and visionary step” critical to unlocking the continent’s aviation potential. However, he noted that implementation has been slow, impeded by fragmented regulations and high intra-African airfares.
“Our skies must no longer be defined by closed borders, but by open opportunities,” he said, urging member states to move beyond political declarations and take concrete action.
Head of the BAG Secretariat, Fansu Bojang, echoed the minister’s sentiments, highlighting both the group’s accomplishments and looming challenges.
He noted that while BAG has achieved much—establishing safety oversight and accident investigation bodies recognized by other ICAO regions—its future remains uncertain unless structural and funding issues are resolved.
“Our existence is under threat by serious political challenges,” Mr. Bojang said, pointing to the need for sustainable funding mechanisms. A special subcommittee is currently reviewing options for long-term financing of the group’s operations.
He also appealed for greater inclusion of service providers, such as airlines and airport operators, within BAG’s membership. “Service providers must take their rightful place in BAG,” he said, noting that their participation is vital for the continued growth of the region’s aviation industry.
