Inaugural Int’l Airshow: Keyamo Declares Nigeria Poised to Lead African Skies
Nigeria has officially joined the global aviation stage with the launch of the inaugural Nigeria International Airshow, a historic event aimed at showcasing the country’s aviation potential and positioning it as Africa’s aviation hub.
Speaking at the opening of the 4-day event, Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, welcomed participants from across the globe, including industry leaders, regulators, investors, and aviation enthusiasts.
“This moment is historic. For the first time, Nigeria, the aviation hub of West Africa, joins the global community of nations that host world-class airshows—platforms where aviation innovation, investment, technology, policy, and partnerships converge”, Keyamo said.
Under the theme of advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Minister highlighted Nigeria’s achievements in the sector, noting progress in airport modernisation, airspace development, regulatory strengthening, and fleet renewal.
Among the milestones cited:
- Safety and Security: Maintenance of world-class safety rankings and deployment of advanced surveillance technologies.
- Airport Infrastructure: Expansion and rehabilitation of terminals and runways, alongside cargo and logistics reforms to boost competitiveness.
- Legal and Regulatory Reforms: Implementation of the Cape Town Convention (CTC) and the Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorisation (IDERA) to enhance aircraft financing and investor confidence.
- Airspace Modernisation: Advanced communication, navigation, and surveillance systems, including performance-based navigation procedures nationwide.
- Capacity Building and Private Sector Participation: Expansion of training for pilots, engineers, and controllers, and the structuring of airport concessions and PPP projects.
Keyamo emphasised that the airshow is more than an exhibition; it is “a statement of intent” that Nigeria is ready to lead, innovate, and compete on the global aviation stage.
“This platform will inspire young Nigerians to explore aerospace engineering, aviation technology, defence systems, and the limitless opportunities within the sector”, he said.
He further acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu, for providing a clear vision for a modern, safe, and globally competitive aviation sector, as well as the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development for its contributions to the growth of the industry.
The inaugural airshow will see global manufacturers, airlines, investors, and innovators converge to explore opportunities, display cutting-edge technologies, and shape the future of flight in Nigeria and Africa.
Keyamo concluded with a call for collaboration and patience as the event grows in stature, promising that the Nigeria International Airshow will evolve to become a permanent global aviation fixture, akin to those in Paris, Dubai, and Singapore.
“Welcome to the Nigeria International Airshow. Welcome to the future of African aviation”, he said.
