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From Idu Jude, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu, alongside other cabinet ministers, has honoured the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for achieving the milestone of hosting Nigeria’s first-ever airshow in Abuja.
The Nigerian International Airshow is designed to rival the capabilities of the Russian and American aviation sectors and to signal the nation’s ambition to take a leading role on the African continent.
Among the dignitaries were the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike—represented by his Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure—Labour and Employment Minister, Dr Nkiruka Onyejeocha, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and former APC Chairman and FAAN’s board Chair, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje.
In his address, the Aviation Minister underscored the significance of this moment:
“This is our first attempt. It will not be perfect. We are taking baby steps, but we are taking them with courage, conviction, and clarity of purpose. As with every great beginning, we will learn from this experience, we will improve, and we will build upon it until the Nigeria International Airshow becomes a permanent fixture on the global aviation calendar—standing shoulder to shoulder with USA, Russia, Paris, Dubai, Farnborough, and Singapore.”
He further described the event as a transformative milestone:
“For the first time, Nigeria—West Africa’s aviation hub and the gateway to Africa’s largest economy—joins the global community of nations that host world-class airshows. For decades, the question has been asked: When will Nigeria take its rightful place on the global aviation showcase circuit? Today, with this inaugural airshow, we provide a clear and confident answer.”
Senator George Akume, who represented President Tinubu at the occasion, praised the minister for his foresight, leadership, and impressive record in repositioning the aviation sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to developing world-class aviation infrastructure and capabilities, highlighting major strides in aircraft maintenance and training:
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“We have signed agreements with Boeing and Cranfield University to establish state-of-the-art MRO facilities, reducing the $200 million annual capital flight for overseas maintenance. Aero Contractors and XEJet are already driving this transformation with new hubs in Lagos and Abuja.”
The SGF added that the airshow aligns squarely with President Tinubu’s broader vision of a safe, secure, and globally competitive aviation industry capable of stimulating economic growth, boosting tourism, advancing national security, and positioning Nigeria as Africa’s aviation nerve centre.
The Nigeria International Airshow serves as more than an exhibition—it is a forward-looking declaration of national ambition. It brings together international manufacturers, innovators, regulators, airlines, investors, and aviation enthusiasts to explore opportunities, share knowledge, and showcase cutting-edge technologies.
The minister emphasised the event’s role in inspiring young Nigerians:
“Here, young people will discover what is possible. They will be inspired by aerospace engineering, aviation technology, defence systems, drones, and the limitless universe of opportunities within the sector.”
Consequently, the Minister called for unity, vision, and collective determination to achieve the desired goal.
“It may not be perfect, but it is our beginning. With each edition, we will refine, expand, and elevate this airshow until it becomes a global benchmark. We may be taking small steps, but they are steps toward greatness.”
The minister congratulated the organising committee, aviation agencies, partners, and stakeholders for bringing this historic event to life.
Highlights of the occasion included the Nigerian Air Force setting the tone with a captivating aerial demonstration featuring select ceremonial aircraft, showcasing Nigeria’s growing aerospace capability.
