By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.

In a landmark stride for the nation’s aviation sector, Nigeria is set to host its first-ever International Air Show from December 2 to 4, 2025—an event the Federal Government says will place the country firmly on the global aviation map.

The announcement came from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, during an inspection tour of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Friday. Speaking alongside the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofamata, heads of aviation agencies, and key private-sector partners, Keyamo said preparations have reached an advanced stage.

The Minister drew parallels with major global events such as the Farnborough, Paris, and Dubai Air Shows, emphasizing that Nigeria’s debut edition aims to mirror their success by attracting investments, boosting national pride, and accelerating development in the aviation and aerospace industries.

“This is the first time in our history that we are hosting an international air show,” Keyamo said. “We are expecting foreign visitors, airlines, investors, financiers, and partners who want to see what Nigeria has to offer. There is no better time. The sector is on the cusp of development, and the present administration has rolled out policies already driving growth.”

According to the Minister, the three–day event will feature exhibitions, stakeholder seminars, business exchanges, and special aerial displays by the Nigerian Air Force on both the opening and closing days.

In a major revelation, Keyamo announced that no public funds were spent in organizing the event, describing it as a “milestone achievement” of the Ministry’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach.

“Everything you see here today is funded entirely by the private sector,” he said. “The government has only provided its franchise, infrastructure, and support. We did not commit federal funds, yet Nigeria is gaining maximum global mileage. This is the clever and efficient approach we adopted.”

To reassure travelers, Keyamo explained that the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) restricting flights only during one-hour windows scheduled for the aerial displays on the first and last days. “Normal flight operations will continue outside these periods,” he assured.

With thousands of international guests expected to begin arriving as early as Sunday, the Minister said global interest has surged, positioning Nigeria as a rising force in the aviation world.

Mrs. Brian Okonkwo, Chief Executive of Nigerian International Airshow Limited and lead private partner, confirmed participation from major global aviation brands, including Textron Aviation, Leonardo Agusta, as well as several local and international airlines, financiers, lessors, and industry players.

The event is expected to enhance Nigeria’s global visibility, stimulate aviation investments, and signal a new era for the country’s aerospace ambitions.