-SL Transport Minister
Alhaji Haruna Sani
The Roberts Flight Information Region (FIR) remains a critical hub for aviation safety and economic connectivity in West Africa, said Sierra Leone’s Minister of Transport and Aviation, Fanday Turay.
“Roberts FIR is a vital part of the regional and international aviation network, enabling trade, tourism, and connectivity across nations. Efficient management of this airspace supports economic growth and ensures the safety of millions of passengers who rely on air travel,” Turay said.
Speaking at the Roberts FIR Ministerial Council meeting held on December 5th at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Freetown, Turay highlighted the organization’s essential role in managing a significant portion of West African airspace.
The two-day event, which included the Technical Council Committee and Ministerial Council meetings, brought together aviation leaders from Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. The sessions focused on chatting the organization’s strategic path, addressing key challenges, and enhancing regional cooperation in airspace management.
Minister Turay, the outgoing Chairman of the Ministerial Council, welcomed his Guinean and Liberian counterparts, expressing pride in Sierra Leone’s role as a host and reaffirming the country’s commitment to regional cooperation.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration among member states, noting that regional unity strengthens both economic and operational outcomes. Turay also commended the Technical Committee for their rigorous budget analysis, describing them as the “backbone” of the organization’s decision-making process.
He reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to the shared agenda of the Mano River Union countries, emphasizing that collective efforts will ensure airspace safety and stability.
Representing Guinea’s Transport Minister Ousmane Gaoual Diallo, Mohamed Bakayoko assumed the role of Chairman of the Ministerial Council. He praised the progress achieved under Turay’s leadership and pledged to continue fostering unity and operational excellence within Roberts FIR.
“Aviation safety is the cornerstone of Roberts FIR. The organization stands for safety, efficiency, and collaboration,” Bakayoko said. He highlighted the unwavering commitment of member states to ensure the financial and operational stability of the organization despite limited resources.
Bakayoko stressed that Guinea’s leadership would focus on maintaining safety standards and enhancing cooperation among member states. He also acknowledged the dedication of the Technical Committee and the support provided by member governments.
Liberia’s Minister of Transport, Sirleaf Ralph Tyler, reflected on the founding principles of Roberts FIR, which was established 50 years ago as a symbol of unity and shared responsibility among member states.
“Roberts FIR was born from the spirit of communality and mutual support, embodying the collective vision of our nations,” Tyler said.
He reiterated Liberia’s commitment to upholding the organization’s values and advancing its objectives. “We are prepared to contribute to Roberts FIR’s continued growth, ensuring its role as a leader in regional airspace management,” he added.
As the meeting concluded, Turay urged continued collaboration and focus among member states to achieve sustainable and inclusive economic growth through improved aviation safety and development.
Bakayoko and Tyler echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of regional unity in addressing common challenges and enhancing airspace management.
Under Guinea’s leadership, Roberts FIR aims to expand its role as a pillar of regional and international aviation, reinforcing its commitment to safety, connectivity and economic integration for the benefit of West Africa and beyond.
