In a powerful foreword published in the inaugural edition of the Nigeria International Airshow Magazine, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK), has declared the maiden Nigeria International Airshow officially open and pronounced it a historic turning point that finally places Nigeria among the elite league of nations hosting world-class aviation showcases.
Describing the event as “more than an event — it is a statement of intent,” the Minister stated:
“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… Until the Nigeria International Airshow becomes a permanent fixture on the global aviation calendar — standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Paris, Dubai, Farnborough, and Singapore.”
Anchored firmly on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Minister listed ten transformational achievements that have repositioned Nigerian aviation as one of the fastest-advancing sectors in the country:
Strengthening of Aviation Safety & Security
Sustained world-class safety rankings through NCAA oversight
Airport recertification and deployment of advanced ILS, approach lighting, and surveillance systems
Modernisation & Expansion of Airport Infrastructure
New and ongoing terminal expansions, runway rehabilitation, and cargo/logistics reforms
Full Implementation of Cape Town Convention (CTC)
Dramatic improvement in Nigeria’s Cape Town Compliance Index
Operationalisation of Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorisation (IDERA)
Legal reforms that have slashed risk perception and unlocked cheaper aircraft leasing for Nigerian carriers
Airspace Modernisation by NAMA
New radar coverage, digital air traffic systems, and nationwide Performance-Based Navigation (PBN)
Enhanced Standards at FAAN Airports
ICAO-compliant security upgrades and new service-quality measures
Government-Backed Aircraft Leasing Initiative
Direct engagement with global OEMs and financiers to support fleet renewal
Strengthened Bilateral & Multilateral Relationships
Expanded BASAs, leadership roles in ICAO, AFCAC, and African aviation programmes
Aviation Capacity-Building
NCAT simulator upgrades and expanded training for pilots, engineers, and ATCs
Private Sector Participation
Ongoing airport concession programme and new frameworks for cargo terminals, MROs, and aviation cities
Momentum Toward Africa’s Aviation Hub
Policies and partnerships positioning Nigeria as the undisputed gateway to the continent
Minister Keyamo emphasised that the Airshow is a platform for discovery, investment, collaboration, and inspiration for young Nigerians to pursue careers in aerospace engineering, defence systems, drones, and advanced aviation technology.
In a passionate conclusion, he declared:
“We may be taking small steps, but they are steps toward greatness… The future of Nigerian aviation is bright. And today, at the maiden Nigeria International Airshow, we take flight toward that future — together.”
The Minister extended heartfelt congratulations to the organisers, the organising committee, aviation agencies, industry stakeholders, and partners for delivering this historic milestone.
Welcome to the Nigeria International Airshow. Welcome to the future of African aviation.
Nigeria Takes Flight!” – Festus Keyamo declares maiden Nigeria International Airshow open, vows to place country shoulder-to-shoulder with Paris, Dubai, Farnborough
