Nigeria has marked a major milestone with the launch of its first-ever Nigeria International Airshow, an event the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN described as historic and long-awaited. Welcoming dignitaries, industry leaders and global partners, the Honorable Minister said, “It is with great pride and an even greater sense of responsibility that I welcome you to the first-ever Nigeria International Airshow.”
He emphasized the significance of the moment, noting, “This moment is historic. For the first time, Nigeria, the aviation hub of West Africa and the gateway to Africa’s largest economy joins the global community of nations that host world-class airshows—platforms where aviation innovation, investment, technology, policy, and partnerships converge.”
Keyamo acknowledged that this maiden edition is the beginning of a long-term journey, stating, “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.” He added that Nigeria intends to improve and grow the airshow until it stands shoulder to shoulder with established global events such as Paris, Dubai, Farnborough and Singapore.
The Honourable Minister referenced the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the airshow is aligned with the President’s goal for a “modern, safe, secure, globally competitive aviation industry—one that drives economic growth, strengthens national security, supports tourism, and positions Nigeria as Africa’s aviation hub.” He highlighted achievements already recorded in the aviation sector, including “Strengthening of Aviation Safety and Security, Modernisation and Expansion of Airport Infrastructure, Cape Town Convention (CTC) Implementation, Airspace Modernisation, Enhanced Standards at FAAN-Managed Airports, Aircraft Leasing and Fleet Renewal Support” amongst others
Barr. Keyamo described the event as more than an exhibition, explaining, “This Airshow represents more than an event; it is a statement of intent. It is a bold declaration that Nigeria is ready to lead, innovate, and compete on the global stage; it is a platform for discovery, investment, and collaboration.” He added that the airshow provides young Nigerians with an opportunity to engage with aerospace engineering, aviation technology, defence systems, and other emerging sectors.
As the event opened, Keyamo urged patience and collaboration from all stakeholders. “As we take this bold first step, I ask that we remain patient, collaborative, and ambitious. It may not be perfect, but it is our beginning.” He expressed optimism about the future of the event, noting, “We may be taking small steps, but they are steps toward greatness—toward a future where the Nigeria International Airshow becomes a global brand and a symbol of our nation’s ambition.”
He concluded with confidence in the future of Nigerian aviation, stating, “The future of Nigerian aviation is bright. And today, standing here at the maiden Nigeria International Airshow, we take flight toward that future—together.” The minister congratulated organizers, agencies, partners and the entire aviation community for making the historic moment possible.