Joseph Bukari Nikpe (Left), with ICAO Council President, Salvatore Sciacchitano (Right)
Ghana’s Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to international aviation safety, security, and sustainability at the ongoing 42nd Triennial Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
In his address to the Assembly, Nikpe commended ICAO’s leadership in guiding global aviation toward “recovery, resilience, and transformation,” particularly as the industry faces challenges from artificial intelligence, evolving security threats, and sustainability demands.
The Minister emphasised Ghana’s strong support for ICAO’s ‘No Country Left Behind’ initiative and called for enhanced cooperation to help African States close safety oversight gaps, modernise air navigation systems, and develop climate-resilient infrastructure.
Ghana reaffirms aviation safety and sustainability goals at ICAO Assembly
Highlighting Ghana’s recent aviation progress, he announced the launch of the Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) Systems in August 2025.
He noted that “these systems comply with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2178 and ICAO standards, marking a major step forward in strengthening Ghana’s aviation security framework.”
Nikpe also highlighted the government’s continued investment in modern airport infrastructure. He mentioned that the Kotoka International Airport remains the hub of Ghana’s aviation sector, while Kumasi and Tamale Airports have been upgraded to international status.
“Plans are also underway to establish a state-of-the-art flight training school and a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) center to serve Ghana and the wider West African sub-region,” he added.
On environmental sustainability, the Minister reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to ICAO’s Long-Term Global Aspirational Goals (LTAGs) for achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
He noted that Ghana is implementing the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and exploring the use of sustainable aviation fuels.
He further emphasised Ghana’s commitment to inclusivity, noting that the country is represented at ICAO by a distinguished female delegate in line with ICAO’s Gender Equality Programme.
Following his address, Nikpe paid a courtesy call on ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano, sharing Ghana’s aviation achievements and future ambitions.
He revealed plans to establish a national airline to enhance connectivity across Africa and beyond and expressed appreciation for ICAO’s continued support.
Sciacchitano commended Ghana’s leadership in African aviation and pledged ICAO’s continued assistance in sustaining the country’s progress.
In addition, Nikpe held meetings with the Ministers of Transport of Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates to explore opportunities for closer aviation cooperation.
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