The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has described the nation’s first international airshow as a defining moment for the country.
The Minister stated this in his opening remarks on Wednesday, in Abuja, and
emphasised that Nigeria, long regarded as West Africa’s aviation hub, was finally assuming its rightful place in the global aviation showcase circuit.
“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… 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 Paris, Dubai, Farnborough, and Singapore.”
The Minister emphasised its importance in inspiring Nigerian youth.
“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.”
Minister Keyamo expressed gratitude to the organising committee, aviation agencies, partners, and stakeholders whose collective effort made the historic event possible. He underscored that this first edition—though not perfect—marks the beginning of a bold journey:
“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.”
Representing President Tinubu, SGF Sen. George Akume commended Minister Keyamo for his visionary leadership and contributions to the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He highlighted recent strategic agreements with Boeing and Cranfield University to establish modern MRO facilities—critical infrastructure expected to drastically reduce the over $200 million spent annually on overseas aircraft maintenance.
“Aero Contractors and XEJet are already driving this transformation with new hubs in Lagos and Abuja,” Akume noted, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to a safe, secure, and globally competitive aviation industry.
The airshow served not only as an exhibition but also as a national declaration of ambition—creating a platform for collaboration among international manufacturers, airlines, regulators, and investors.
President Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume—led an assembly of top government officials, international partners, and industry stakeholders to honour the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, at the opening ceremony of the country’s maiden International Airshow.
The historic event, brought together some of the nation’s most influential leaders, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike (represented by Minister of State Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure); Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Nkiruka Onyejeocha; Ondo State Governor, His Excellency Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa; and former APC Chairman and FAAN Board Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje.
Also present were the chief executives of all aviation agencies: Capt. Chris Najomo, Director General, NCAA,” Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director/CEO, FAAN; Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., Director General, NSIB; Dr. Mustapha Sheikh, Rector, AAAU; Prof. Charles Anosike, Director General, NIMET
The Nigeria International Airshow—the first in the nation’s history—attracted global manufacturers, innovators, investors, and aviation giants such as COMAC and Shenzhen Technology. A thrilling aerial display by the Nigerian Air Force opened the ceremony, showcasing the country’s expanding aerospace capability.