The Federal Government has declared its full readiness to host Nigeria’s maiden International Air Show, slated for December 2–4, 2025, in Abuja.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, made the announcement on Friday during an inspection tour of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. He was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofamata, senior ministry officials, heads of aviation agencies, and private sector partners.
Keyamo said preparations for the historic event were advancing smoothly. He noted that internationally recognised shows such as Farnborough, Paris, and Dubai have helped countries showcase aviation capabilities, attract investments, and spur industry growth. Nigeria’s first International Air Show, he added, aims to achieve similar outcomes.
“This is the first time in the history of Nigeria that we are hosting an international air show. We are expecting foreign visitors, airlines, investors, financiers, and partners who want to see what Nigeria has to offer,” the Minister said. “There is no better time than now. The sector is on the cusp of development, and the present administration has rolled out policies that are already driving growth.”
According to him, the three-day event will include daily exhibitions, stakeholder seminars, business networking sessions, and special aerial displays by the Nigerian Air Force on the opening and closing days.
Keyamo also revealed that no public funds were used in organising the Air Show. He described the event as a significant success of the Ministry’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
“Everything you see here today is funded entirely by the private sector. The government has only provided its franchise, infrastructure, and support. We did not commit federal funds, yet Nigeria is gaining maximum global mileage,” he explained.
He added that the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) restricting flights only during brief display periods.
“For the air displays, the airspace will be restricted for only about an hour on the first and last days. Normal flight operations will continue outside these windows,” he assured.
Keyamo stated that thousands of international visitors are expected to begin arriving from Sunday, noting that global interest in the event continues to rise. He said the Air Show is already positioning Nigeria as a growing force in the global aviation ecosystem.
Lead private partner and Chief Executive of Nigerian International Airshow Limited, Mrs. Brian Okonkwo, confirmed participation from major global brands, including Textron Aviation, Leonardo Agusta, as well as several local and international airlines, lessors, financiers, and other industry stakeholders.
Left: Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo SAN, CON in a hand shake with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofamata.
