Aviation experts have described the maiden Nigeria International AirShow as a major milestone for the country’s aviation sector, positioning Nigeria for stronger global relevance and long-term industry growth.
The three-day event, held from October 2 to 4 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, brought together global aviation leaders, policymakers, and industry professionals to showcase Nigeria’s potential as an emerging aviation hub.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the AirShow represents a “bold first step toward global leadership” in the sector. “We are taking baby steps, but we are taking them with courage, conviction, and clarity of purpose,” he noted.
Keyamo said the event is expected to catalyse international partnerships and drive growth in the aviation industry.
He disclosed that Nigeria has signed cooperation agreements with global manufacturers, including COMAC and Boeing, to strengthen the country’s aviation capabilities.
He added that the federal government has continued to invest in infrastructure, with upgrades completed across six major airports and ongoing rehabilitation at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
Nigeria’s aviation sector is projected to grow by 8% annually over the next decade, with passenger traffic expected to reach 25.7 million by 2029.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the AirShow places Nigeria “firmly on the global aviation map.” Akume reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing world-class aviation infrastructure, including agreements with Boeing and Cranfield University to establish advanced Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.
Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the AirShow as clear evidence of Nigeria’s readiness to embrace the future of aviation, aerospace engineering, and next-generation mobility.
Ethiopian Airlines CEO, Mesfin Tasew, said the inaugural event has created a platform for Nigeria to emerge as a key player in global aviation.
Hon. Prince Kevin Timothy, National President of the Tinubu Young Generation Forum and CEO of Kev-Crave Global Ltd, commended Keyamo for the successful hosting of what he called a “remarkable milestone” for the aviation sector. He also praised FAAN, the Nigeria International AirShow team, and the Nigerian Air Force for their contributions.
He welcomed the announcement that the AirShow will now be held every two years, describing it as a “progressive step” for the industry.
NAN reports that the event convened global industry stakeholders to explore partnerships, investments, and innovations capable of accelerating Nigeria’s aviation growth.