By Chinelo Obogo
Nigeria has been selected to host the next Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition, which will be held in Abuja between September 13 and 14, 2023.
A statement by the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation (DCAA), Capt. Musa Nuhu, said the agency, will in collaboration with the Times Aerospace Events, host the two days event, which is in its seventh edition.
The summit dubbed ‘Aviation Africa 2023’ is with the theme: ‘Stepping Up for Business.’
Nuhu stated the event would be held at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja.
The statement hinted that key industry players from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), African Airlines Association (AFRAA), airlines Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), Director-General Civil Aviation Authorities (DG CAAs), Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Air Chiefs and airport CEOs would set out the key areas of concern in the industry during the summit.
Also, major stakeholders in the air navigation service providers, Accident Investigation Bureau, business and charter operators, cargo airlines, ground handling companies, flight training organisations and allied and ancillary aviation service providers are expected to attend the event.
Nuhu emphasised that sustainability of the aviation industry by governments and professionals on the continent would also take centre stage at the discourse, stressing that Africa looks at becoming a key stakeholder in the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
Besides, he pointed out that separate symposia would focus on aviation finance, business aviation and the whole Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.
He added: “There will be separate sessions that would examine the issue of future workforce and safety – issues that have dogged Africa’s potential for decades.
“On behalf of the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I extend a warm invitation and look forward to welcoming everyone to the event in Abuja.”
Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition is a major aviation event, which was first held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2015.
Rwanda hosted the event in 2017, 2019 and 2022, while Egypt held it in 2018. Ethiopia hosted the summit in 2020.
This is the first time Nigeria is holding the event, which serves as a platform for aviation professionals, industry stakeholders, government officials, and suppliers to come together, discuss trends, innovations, challenges, and opportunities in the African aviation sector.
The event typically features conferences, exhibitions, and networking sessions and shows the latest products and services in the aviation industry.
It further aims to promote collaboration, knowledge sharing, and business development within the African aviation community.
President Paul Kagame of Rwanda officiated the opening ceremony in 2022 when it was held in the East – central African country.