Nigeria International Airshow represents bold declaration Nigeria is ready to lead,innovate,compete on global stage,says Aviation Minister
Barrister Festus Keyamo,Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development
The epoch making maiden edition of the Nigeria International Airshow represents more than an event, it is a statement of intent that represents a bold declaration that Nigeria is ready to lead, innovate, and compete on the global stage.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development,Barrister Festus Keyamo who made the statement at the first ever Nigeria Air Show posited that it is a platform for discovery, investment, and collaboration.
Here,according to him, global manufacturers, investors, regulators, airlines, innovators, and aviation enthusiasts will gather to explore opportunities, display cutting-edge technology, and shape the future of flight.
He said it is also a platform for young Nigerians to see what is possible—to be inspired by aerospace engineering, aviation technology, defence systems, drones, and the limitless universe of opportunities within the sector.
As we take this bold first step,Keyamo advice that we remain patient, collaborative, and ambitious,noting that the first edition 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—toward a future where the Nigeria International Airshow becomes a global brand and a symbol of our nation’s ambition.”
“The future of Nigerian aviation is bright. And today, standing here at the maiden Nigeria International Airshow, we take flight toward that future—together.”
“For decades, the question has been asked: When will Nigeria take its rightful place in the global aviation showcase circuit? Today, with this inaugural Airshow, we provide a clear and confident answer.”
This moment is historic. For the first time, Nigeria, the aviation hub of West Africa and the gateway to Africa’s largest economy joins the global community of nations that host world-class airshows—platforms where aviation innovation, investment, technology, policy, and partnerships converge.
“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. As with every great beginning, we will learn from this experience, 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.”
He highlighted some of the achievements of the sector under PresidentTinubu’s administration :
- Strengthening of Aviation Safety and Securit
– Attainment and maintenance of world-class safety rankings through rigorous regulatory oversight by the NCAA.
– Upgrade and recertification of major airports to meet international safety standards.
– Deployment of enhanced safety-critical equipment including approach lighting systems, Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), and enhanced surveillance technologies.
- Modernisation and Expansion of Airport Infrastructure
– Ongoing and completed terminal expansions to improve passenger experience.
– Rehabilitation and strengthening of runways in key airports.
– Introduction of cargo and logistics infrastructure reforms to improve Nigeria’s regional competitiveness.
- Legal and Regulatory Strengthening of Aircraft Financing: Cape Town Convention (CTC) Implementation
Nigeria has also significantly enhanced its global standing in aircraft financing through the recent, effective implementation of the Cape Town Convention (CTC) and the Aircraft Protocol, leading to a notable increase in Nigeria’s Cape Town Compliance Index score.
A major milestone in this achievement is the operationalisation of the Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorisation (IDERA) by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), which now ensures swift, transparent deregistration and repossession of aircraft by lessors and financiers in cases of default. Additional legal reforms have boosted investor confidence, reduced risk perceptions, and expanded access to aircraft leasing and financing for Nigerian operators.
- Airspace Modernisation
– Deployment of advanced communication, navigation, and surveillance systems through NAMA.
– Upgrade of radar coverage and digitalisation of key air traffic management processes.
– Implementation of performance-based navigation (PBN) procedures nationwide.
- Enhanced Standards at FAAN-Managed Airports
– Improved airport security architecture in line with ICAO standards.
– Introduction of new service quality measures to enhance operational efficiency.
– Ongoing terminal operational reforms.
- Aircraft Leasing and Fleet Renewal Support
– Initiation of a government-backed aircraft leasing initiative.
– Engagement with global OEMs and financiers to support airline fleet renewal
- Strengthening of Bilateral and Multilateral Aviation Relationships
– Expansion of BASAs to open new markets for Nigerian carriers.
– Active leadership in ICAO, AFCAC, and African aviation development programmes.
– Stronger participation in global aviation programmes.
- Promotion of Aviation Capacity-Building
– Enhanced training programmes through NCAT, including simulator upgrades.
– Expanded training capacity for pilots, engineers, and air traffic controllers.
- Advancement of Private Sector Participation
– Launch and ongoing structuring of airport concession and PPP programmes.
– Improved frameworks for cargo terminals, maintenance facilities, and aviation city developments.
- Growing Momentum Toward an African Aviation Hub
– Implementation of policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
– Engagement with regional airlines, OEMs, and global partners to deepen connectivity.
