Nigeria and Cameroon have taken a major step toward aviation safety and regional solidarity with the signing of a joint Technical Aeronautical Search and Rescue (SAR) Agreement.

The accord was finalized during a high-level visit by Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, and NCAA Director General, Capt. Chris Najomo.

The agreement strengthens collaboration between the countries’ Rescue Coordination Centres, creating faster communication, joint response procedures, and shared operational protocols.

 Minister Keyamo emphasized the human dimension of the partnership: “In moments of distress, response time saves lives. Borders must never become barriers to humanitarian intervention.”

The ceremony brought together Nigeria and Cameroon’s top aviation authorities, highlighting the enduring diplomatic, economic, and social ties between the two nations. Minister Keyamo expressed appreciation for Cameroon’s warm reception and framed the agreement as a tangible demonstration of African unity.

The SAR pact also supports the broader objectives of Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, prioritizing safety, regional integration, and the protection of citizens.

Capt. Najomo assured that Nigeria will continue to uphold ICAO standards while working closely with Cameroon to strengthen cross-border emergency response in West and Central Africa.

Observers say the agreement is a clear signal of commitment to proactive, humanitarian-driven aviation safety. “This is not just a technical document; it is a statement that cooperation, not fragmentation, defines our regional approach to aviation,” the Minister noted.

The visit further reinforced the shared vision of Nigeria and Cameroon to enhance operational readiness and ensure the safety of travelers across African skies.

United Nigeria Airlines and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) have held a strategic engagement in Lagos to deepen collaboration on aviation safety, infrastructure development and operational efficiency in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

The meeting, held at FAAN Headquarters, brought together United Nigeria Airlines’ Chairman, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, and FAAN’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, alongside senior management teams from both organisations.

Prof. Okonkwo raised concerns over the rising incidence of bird strikes, describing them as a growing operational and financial burden for airlines.

He also highlighted operational constraints at sunrise and sunset airports and Category II airports, noting that limited operating hours and inadequate facilities often disrupt flight schedules and cause delays.

He further flagged the increasing challenge of unruly passenger behaviour and requested land allocation in Abuja for the development of a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility by United Nigeria Airlines to support aircraft maintenance locally.

In response, Mrs Kuku underscored the importance of collaboration between airport authorities and airlines to improve safety and efficiency. She disclosed that FAAN has identified key causes of bird strikes and is implementing environmental control measures, including enhanced grass and habitat management around airports.

She also announced plans to upgrade airfield lighting at Category II airports to support extended operations, with ongoing apron and lighting improvements at Benin Airport and lighting upgrades planned for Jos Airport.

 FAAN further pledged stricter enforcement measures against unruly passengers and expressed readiness to review and fast-track the airline’s Abuja MRO land request to boost local maintenance capacity.

United Nigeria Airlines Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Osita Okonkwo, said sustained cooperation between airlines and airport authorities remains critical to the safe and efficient growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry.

Other members of the United Nigeria Airlines delegation included Director of Administration Linus Awute, Director of Flight Operations Capt. Ahmad Mahmoud, Chief Commercial Officer Raphael Uchegbu, and Director of Human Resources Kelechi Violet Asuquo, among others.

Air Peace Limited has unveiled a new Executive Lounge at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Terminal 2, marking a significant step in its efforts to enhance premium travel services and strengthen its position in regional and international aviation.

The facility was officially inaugurated on February 14, 2026, in an event attended by airline executives, staff, members of the media, and First and Business Class passengers, particularly those flying on the carrier’s long-haul service to London.

Among the notable guests was former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, who joined the airline in commemorating the milestone.

The newly opened lounge is designed to provide a comfortable and efficient pre-flight experience for premium passengers.

The facility accommodates more than 39 guests and features modern cream-toned interiors, six recliner chairs for relaxation, and designated workspaces equipped with computer monitors and printing services.

Passengers also have access to private sections fitted with tablets and headphones for virtual meetings or personal entertainment.

The lounge includes an entertainment area with a large television and a fully stocked refreshment bar offering pastries, soft drinks, and other beverages.

To enhance convenience, the lounge is equipped with an interactive digital display showing real-time flight information, airline products, and corporate updates.

Security is reinforced through a round-the-clock surveillance system covering the entire facility.

Speaking at the unveiling, Chief Commercial Officer Nowel Ngala described the lounge as a strategic investment aimed at improving customer satisfaction and reinforcing the airline’s premium service offerings.

He said the initiative reflects the airline’s commitment to delivering world-class services while appreciating the loyalty of its First and Business Class passengers.

Peter Obi commended the airline for its continued investment in aviation infrastructure, noting that such initiatives contribute to improving Nigeria’s global aviation standing and demonstrate the capacity of indigenous carriers to compete internationally.

The launch of the Executive Lounge represents another milestone in the airline’s expansion drive, as it continues to upgrade its services and enhance the travel experience for passengers across its domestic, regional, and international routes.