The International Civil Aviation Day 2020 with the theme: ‘Advancing Innovation for Global Aviation Development.’
International Civil Aviation Day was established in 1994 as part of the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) 50th anniversary activities.
In 1996, pursuant to an ICAO initiative and with the assistance of the Canadian Government, the United Nations General Assembly officially recognized 7 December as International Civil Aviation Day in the UN system.
Dr. James Odaudu, Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Aviation in a statement stated that the roadmap was developed to serve as a catalyst for a comprehensive overhaul of the aviation industry in Nigeria so as to position the country as an air transportation hub within West and Central African sub-region.
The roadmaps are the establishment of a national carrier, creation of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, development of agro-allied cargo terminal, the establishment of an aerospace and Aviation University, establishment of aviation leasing company, development of an aerotropolis (airport city), concession of some airports, the establishment of search and rescue and creation of five airport free zones.
Sirika declared that the roadmap would lay a solid and lasting foundation for aviation development in the country.
The minister further assured Nigerians that the implementation of the roadmap, which, according to him, was in line with the theme of ICAD, remained on course and that the results would become obvious in due course.
The minister also reiterated that safety and security had remained at the centre of government policies in the sector since the inception of the current administration and its efforts have been applauded by all, Including ICAO, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC).
He appealed to all players within the industry to join hands with the government to ensure the realisation of the lofty objectives of the roadmap for the benefit of Nigerians and all users of the nation’s airspace.
The minister also used the occasion to reaffirm Nigeria’s unalloyed commitment to the ideals of ICAO and other aviation bodies of which it is a member.
According to him, after every five years, ICAO council establishes a special anniversary theme for the International Civil Aviation Day.
The purpose of International Civil Aviation Day is to help generate and reinforce worldwide awareness of the importance of international civil aviation to the social and economic development of States, and of the unique role of ICAO in helping States to cooperate and realize a truly global rapid transit network at the service of all mankind.
