Nigeria will host its first International Air Show in Abuja by December 2025, officials confirm.
The event aims to boost aviation growth, attract investors, and spotlight Nigeria’s global air potential.
The Federal Government has announced that Nigeria will host its first-ever International Air Show in December 2025, with Abuja chosen as the venue for the landmark event.
This was disclosed on Thursday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation, Ibrahim Kana, who revealed that the decision followed internal discussions within the ministry and consultations with relevant stakeholders.
Kana said the success of the air show would depend heavily on strong collaboration with the Ministry of Interior due to the essential roles played by its agencies in border control, public safety, and traffic management. These include the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
“The involvement of these agencies is crucial for smooth visa processing, security coordination, and crowd and traffic control,” Kana noted.
He explained that although several airports were evaluated Lagos, Abuja, and Uyo the Federal Capital was ultimately selected due to its central location, ease of access, and existing infrastructure. He also suggested that President Bola Tinubu may attend the event.
The air show is expected to draw global participants, including aviation authorities, investors, and aircraft manufacturers. Kana confirmed that invitations would be sent to aviation bodies worldwide, and that the Nigerian Air Force and Air Traffic Controllers would play active roles in ensuring the event runs smoothly.
He reaffirmed the government’s goal of delivering an air show that meets international standards and promotes Nigeria’s aviation industry.
“We are committed to hosting a world-class event that showcases the potential of Nigeria’s aviation sector to the global market,” Kana said.
Receiving a delegation from the Aviation Ministry, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalena Ajani who represented the Minister welcomed the partnership and pledged full support.
Ajani stated that Nigeria’s online visa system would be upgraded to ease access for foreign visitors. She also stressed the need for clear guidelines outlining the roles of each agency under her ministry to ensure smooth coordination.
Also speaking, the Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, highlighted the importance of early data sharing. She said that knowing the expected number of visitors in advance would allow the NIS to streamline the visa process, reducing the reliance on individual online applications.
Nandap promised full cooperation from the Immigration Service for the success of the program.
On the side of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Tajudeen Oladele Yusuf confirmed the military’s full support. He revealed that a technical sub-committee had already been set up and would provide updates to the main planning body to handle any arising challenges.
In terms of regulatory compliance, Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Godwin Balang, assured that the authority would provide necessary approvals and oversight to ensure the event’s success.
“We are ready to give all required authorizations and support to ensure this program meets aviation safety and regulatory expectations,” Balang said.
The International Air Show is expected to open a new chapter for Nigeria’s aviation industry and position the country as a hub for regional and global air transport development.
