The Federal Ministry of Aviation & Aerospace Development in partnership with Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative-ART has marked a major milestone in Nigeria’s aviation history with the celebration of 100 years since the first flight landed in Kano, Nigeria with a grand celebration. The event was celebrated in the heart of the Nation’s Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The event brought together dignitaries, veterans and important stakeholders in Nigeria’s aviation sector including the Honourable Minister of Aviation & Aerospace Development, Barrister Festus Keyamo, SAN, the new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku, Former Director Grneraal off NCAA, Dr. Harold Demuren, Sen. Musa Adede and Engr. Akin Olateru amongst so many others.
According to the Perm Sec, Dr. Adam, the centenary celebration is “the testament to the resilience and dedication of countless individuals and institutions who have contributed to the growth of the aviation industry in Nigeria.” He stressed that “aviation has played a pivotal role in connecting our people, drive more commerce and positioning Nigeria as a hub in Africa’s aviation landscape.”
During the course of the 100th year celebration, the Ministry honoured 46 aviation veterans including pilots, aeronautical engineers, aviation caterers, past heads of government parastatals, and CEOs of airline amongst others for their remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The Ministry and Heads of Parastatals under the Ministry of Aviation & Aerospace Development also honoured the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Barr. Festus Keyamo in recognition of their contributions and impressive track records in the Nigerian aviation industry.
While giving his gratitude speech, Barr. Keyamo stressed that there was a need to honour the veterans because “a nation that does not honour its heroes is a nation that is bound for failure.” He reiterated that the Nigerian aviation industry got to its position today “on the shoulders, sweat and works of people who have passed this path before everyone else got here.”
The Honourable Minister noted that beyond the list, there are other people that were omitted and he appreciated the efforts of all that had contributed to the Nigerian aviation industry and urged everyone to keep putting in efforts to ensure that the industry is safe and sound.
Notably the centenary celebration is a penultimate event to the first Nigeria International Airshow scheduled to take place at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja from December 2-4, 2025.
