Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has described the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Barr. Festus Egwarewa Keyamo, SAN, CON, as a shining example of courageous and principled service to Nigeria, as the minister celebrates his 56th birthday on January 21, 2026.
In a warmly worded press release issued on the same day, Senator Dafinone extended heartfelt congratulations to his “friend and brother,” praising Keyamo’s remarkable journey from a distinguished legal career to the forefront of national politics and governance. The senator emphasized that the occasion is not merely about marking another year of life but about honouring a legacy built on courage, conviction, clarity of purpose, and an unyielding commitment to justice, accountability, and national progress.
Chief Festus Keyamo, born on January 21, 1970, in Ughelli, Delta State, has become one of Nigeria’s most recognizable and influential public figures. A product of Government College Ughelli and Ambrose Alli University (where he graduated with Second Class Upper honours in Law in 1992), Keyamo was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1993. His legal brilliance earned him the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 2017, and he has since been decorated with the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK).
Before assuming ministerial roles, Keyamo established himself as a fearless human rights activist, incisive columnist, and fearless advocate for democratic values. Known for his sharp intellect and moral courage, he consistently spoke truth to power, defended the rule of law, and championed the cause of ordinary Nigerians, often at considerable personal cost. His fearless commentary and legal activism earned him national respect and positioned him as one of the most credible voices in public discourse.
Senator Dafinone, himself a chartered accountant, economist, and first-term senator elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2023, highlighted Keyamo’s transition from private legal practice and activism to high-level public service as a source of inspiration. “His clarity of purpose and fearlessness have set him apart in public life,” Dafinone stated, underscoring how Keyamo has consistently upheld justice and accountability even when doing so was unpopular or challenging.
Since his appointment as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in August 2023, Keyamo has brought disciplined, reform-oriented leadership to a sector long in need of revitalization. Senator Dafinone expressed admiration for the minister’s focus on safety, operational efficiency, institutional renewal, and economic sustainability. Under Keyamo’s watch, Nigeria has recorded significant milestones: successful removal from the Aviation Working Group’s watchlist for Cape Town Convention compliance, ICAO re-certification of major airports, designation of new international gateways, expansion of international routes for Nigerian carriers, and aggressive pursuit of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for airport modernization and cargo development.
Keyamo’s five-point agenda—safety culture, infrastructure upgrade, support for local operators, human capacity development, and revenue optimization—has aligned seamlessly with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. His efforts to attract global partnerships (including with Boeing for MRO facilities), automate air traffic systems, resolve labour disputes, and promote transparency have boosted investor confidence and positioned Nigeria to reclaim its place as Africa’s aviation powerhouse.
Beyond his federal responsibilities, Dafinone commended Keyamo’s role as a unifying force within the APC, particularly in Delta State, where he has worked tirelessly to strengthen party structures, foster unity, and build bridges across communities. His political maturity and dedication to democratic ideals continue to earn admiration across party lines.
In the press release, Senator Dafinone wrote: “I warmly congratulate my friend and brother, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Barr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, on the joyful occasion of his 56th birthday. Today is not just a celebration of age, but of a life marked by courage, conviction, and unwavering service to our great nation. As Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, I have watched with pride as he brings energy, discipline, and reform-driven leadership to a critical sector of our economy. His focus on safety, efficiency, and institutional renewal reflects his belief that Nigeria can and must work for its people.”
On behalf of the people of Delta Central, Senator Dafinone wished the minister continued good health, long life, renewed strength, and even greater accomplishments in the years ahead. “May the years ahead bring greater accomplishments, deeper fulfillment, and continued impact as he serves Nigeria with the same passion and integrity that have defined his remarkable career,” he concluded.
