The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mahmud Adam Kambari, FCNA, FICA, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to sustaining a cordial and productive relationship with the Abuja Transportation and Aviation Correspondents Association (ATACA), assuring members of continued cooperation and support.
Kambari gave the assurance on Monday, 1 June 2026, when members of ATACA paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, the Permanent Secretary emphasized that his assumption of office would not alter the longstanding partnership between the Ministry and the Association. He pledged to strengthen the existing relationship and ensure that members of the media continue to play their vital role in promoting the activities and achievements of the aviation sector.
He further disclosed that whenever opportunities arise for participation in official local and international engagements of the Ministry, efforts would be made to consider at least one representative of ATACA. He, however, urged the Association to adopt a fair and transparent nomination process to ensure equitable distribution of such opportunities among its members.
Kambari also encouraged members to sustain the spirit of unity, cooperation, and professionalism that has distinguished the Association over the years.
He commended ATACA for the visibility and extensive media support it has consistently provided to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Ministry. He noted that the Honourable Minister, Festus Keyamo, SAN, remains committed to transforming Nigeria’s aviation sector through strategic reforms and innovative policies.
He further stated that, plans are underway to further communicate the Ministry’s key programmes, policies, and achievements through a ministerial press briefing that will be held in the near future.
Kambari assured ATACA representatives that the Ministry would give due consideration to their proposals, particularly the request for support towards ATACA’s Annual Conference scheduled for September 2026. He pledged his maximum support and cooperation in advancing the objectives of the Association.
He reiterated that his office remains open to constructive engagement and collaboration, adding that members of ATACA can always channel their concerns and suggestions through the Office of the Director of Press and Public Affairs.
Earlier, the Chairman of ATACA, Mr. Ejike Omeje, thanked the Permanent Secretary for receiving members of the Association and granting them the opportunity for a familiarization visit.
He explained that ATACA comprises over 40 correspondents covering the transportation and aviation sectors and highlighted the Association’s role in promoting informed reportage of developments within the industries.
Omeje presented two major requests to the Permanent Secretary: support for ATACA’s Annual Seminar and the inclusion of members of the Association in both local and foreign official trips of the Ministry to strengthen media coverage of the sector.
In his vote of thanks, Mr. Oru Leonard expressed appreciation to the Permanent Secretary for his warm reception and media-friendly disposition, while assuring him of the Association’s continued cooperation and support.
Chindaya Ahmadu Audu Adamu
Director, Press and Public Affairs
