By Kiso Simon
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Abubakar Ibrahim Kana, mni, has reiterated the Ministry’s strategic role in driving national economic growth, strengthening security, and integrating Nigeria into the global aviation economy.
Speaking during a press briefing held in Abuja, Dr. Kana stated that since assuming office, the Ministry has embarked on far reaching reforms designed to institutionalize efficiency, build capacity, and reposition the Ministry as a catalyst for innovation and global competitiveness.
He highlighted several key milestones achieved under his leadership..these include:
1. Nigeria’s First International Airshow — Global Integration through Aviation Diplomacy.
Dr. Kana announced the successful hosting of Nigeria’s inaugural International Airshow, a historic event that underscores the nation’s commitment to aviation diplomacy and international partnership.
The Airshow, themed “Global Integration through Aviation Diplomacy,” provides a platform for airlines and aviation stakeholders from around the world to connect and explore business opportunities in Nigeria.
According to him, this initiative opens Nigeria’s airspace for global collaboration, strengthens bilateral partnerships, attracts foreign investment, and positions the country as a strategic aviation and aerospace hub in Africa.
2. Digitization through an Electronic Management System Reducing Bottlenecks and Enhancing Transparency.
The Permanent Secretary noted that the Ministry has undergone significant digital transformation through the implementation of an Electronic Management System (EMS).
This innovation has streamlined internal processes, minimized paperwork, reduced human errors, and enhanced transparency in administrative operations.
Dr. Kana emphasized that the system aligns with the Federal Government’s E-Government Policy, fostering efficiency and accountability across departments.
3. Performance Management System (PMS) Promoting Meritocracy over Seniority.
In alignment with global best practices, the Ministry has adopted a Performance Management System (PMS) that emphasizes merit over seniority.
Under this system, staff performance is evaluated based on objective indicators tied to productivity, innovation, and accountability.
Dr. Kana explained that this shift incentivizes excellence, ensures leadership positions are earned by competence, and promotes a culture of professionalism within the Ministry.
4. International Capacity Building Preparing the Workforce for the Future of Aviation
Recognizing the rapidly evolving nature of the aviation industry, the Ministry has prioritized capacity building and international partnerships.
Through specialized training programs and foreign exchange initiatives, Nigerian aviation officers are being equipped with cutting edge expertise to meet global standards and future industry demands.
5. Staff Welfare Building an Institution through People
Dr. Kana reaffirmed that staff welfare remains central to the Ministry’s reform agenda.
He noted that a motivated workforce is the foundation of institutional success, describing staff welfare not as a luxury, but as a strategic necessity.
“When staff feel valued, they deliver value,” he said, underscoring the Ministry’s commitment to fostering a supportive and productive work environment.
He also commended the Ministry’s sports team for emerging as the second best kitted team during the October 2025 Public Service Sports Competition, a testament to the Ministry’s holistic approach to staff motivation and engagement.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Kana emphasized that these achievements represent more than isolated projects; they form a coherent reform agenda aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s aviation and aerospace sector for global relevance.
He pledged to consolidate the current gains, deepen ongoing reforms, and ensure that the sector remains a key pillar of Nigeria’s economic and strategic development.
