In a resounding diplomatic victory, Nigeria has secured re-election into Part II of the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) at the ongoing 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada.

Nigeria’s candidate, Engr. Mahmoud Ben-Tukur, emerged victorious after a keenly contested election involving 11 other African nations.

Engr. Ben-Tukur, who has been Nigeria’s Representative to ICAO, will continue to occupy Nigeria’s seat on the Council, further strengthening the nation’s role in global aviation governance.

He was re-elected with an impressive 163 votes out of 185 eligible member states, demonstrating strong international confidence in Nigeria’s leadership and contributions to the aviation sector.

With this development, Nigeria joins 11 other countries re-elected into Part II of the ICAO Council, including Egypt and South Africa from the African bloc.

A statement signed by the Special Assistant to the Minister on Media, Tunde Moshood, said the outcome of the election reflects the resilience of Nigeria’s aviation diplomacy and the strength of its global alliances within the ICAO family.

Leading Nigeria’s delegation to the Assembly, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, spearheaded an intensive campaign in support of Nigeria’s candidate.

The Minister also had the privilege of participating in the voting sessions for both Part I and Part II of the Council elections on behalf of Nigeria.

Speaking after the results were announced, the Minister described the victory as a “proud moment for Nigeria and for Africa,” noting that the re-election reaffirms the country’s commitment to the growth of international civil aviation and the promotion of safety, security, and sustainability in the sector.

Nigeria’s continued presence on the ICAO Council ensures that the nation will remain actively involved in shaping policies and standards that guide global aviation, while also promoting the interests of Africa within the international aviation community.