Nigeria re-elected to ICAO council, secures seat in global aviation body

Nigeria has been re-elected to Part 2 of the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), reinforcing its role in shaping global aviation policies.

The country’s representative, Ben Tukur, retained Nigeria’s seat during elections at the ongoing 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada.

He secured 163 votes out of 185 eligible member states, defeating 11 other African contenders.

A statement issued in Abuja by Tunde Moshood, special adviser on media and communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the re-election reflects the strength of Nigeria’s aviation diplomacy and global partnerships.

Tukur will continue to represent Nigeria on the Council, alongside Egypt and South Africa, which also secured re-election to Part 2.

This category is reserved for states that make major contributions to international civil air navigation facilities.

Reacting to the outcome, Minister Keyamo described the victory as a “proud moment for Nigeria and for Africa,” adding that it reaffirms the nation’s commitment to advancing aviation safety, security, and sustainability worldwide.

He said Nigeria’s continued presence on the ICAO Council would ensure Africa’s interests are represented in global aviation governance while helping to shape policies and standards that guide international air transport.

The ICAO Council, the governing body of the organisation, comprises 36 member states elected for three-year terms.

Members are chosen across three categories to balance geographical and functional representation.

Part 1 includes major aviation powers such as the United States, China, France, and Germany; Part 2 covers states making significant technical contributions; while Part 3 ensures broad geographical representation.