The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has described the inaugural Nigeria International Airshow as a transformative milestone capable of redefining the future of the nation’s aviation industry.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Tunde Moshood, on Thursday, the minister said the event marked Nigeria’s formal entry into the league of countries that host globally recognised airshows.
“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,” the statement read.
Keyamo, in what he described as a modest reflection, acknowledged the challenges of a first edition but expressed optimism about the future of the event. “This is our first attempt. It will not be perfect. We are taking baby steps, but with courage, conviction, and clarity of purpose. We will learn, improve, and build upon this experience until the Nigeria International Airshow becomes a permanent fixture on the global aviation calendar standing shoulder to shoulder with Paris, Dubai, Farnborough, and Singapore,” he said.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, commended Keyamo for his foresight and leadership in repositioning the aviation sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Akume reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the development of world-class aviation infrastructure and human capacity, with particular emphasis on aircraft maintenance and training.
He disclosed that agreements have been signed with Boeing and Cranfield University for the establishment of state-of-the-art Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in Nigeria. According to him, the initiative is expected to significantly reduce the nation’s estimated $200 million annual capital flight spent on overseas aircraft maintenance.
He added that Aero Contractors and XEJet are already advancing the agenda through new maintenance hubs in Lagos and Abuja.
The SGF further noted that the Airshow aligns squarely with the broader vision of Bola Tinubu to build a safe, secure and globally competitive aviation industry capable of stimulating economic growth, boosting tourism, enhancing national security and positioning Nigeria as Africa’s aviation nerve centre.
A major highlight of the event was the impressive aerial display by the Nigeria Air Force, which thrilled spectators with a ceremonial demonstration showcasing the country’s expanding aerospace capability.
Beyond the displays, the Airshow served as a strategic platform bringing together international aircraft manufacturers, innovators, regulators, airlines, investors and aviation enthusiasts to exchange ideas, explore investment opportunities and showcase cutting-edge technologies.
Stakeholders at the event agreed that the successful hosting of the Airshow sends a strong signal of Nigeria’s readiness to play a more prominent role in the global aviation ecosystem.
