In a landmark move to position Nigeria as a major player in global aviation, the Federal Government has commenced high-level engagements with international airline operators and key private sector stakeholders ahead of the maiden edition of the Nigeria International Air Show scheduled for December 2025.
The interactive session, held in Abuja, was convened by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni.
The session served as a strategic platform to deliberate on the forthcoming air show, exchange ideas, and reinforce public-private partnerships essential to the growth and sustainability of Nigeria's aviation industry.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Kana described the aviation sector as a pivotal driver of economic development. He emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to unlocking the full potential of the sector through initiatives such as the Nigeria International Air Show.
"The aviation industry is a critical driver of economic development. We are optimistic that the Air Show will not only open new avenues for investors but also deepen existing collaborations," he said.
Dr. Kana acknowledged the private sector for championing the initiative and expressed confidence in its ability to boost investor confidence and foster meaningful partnerships.
He urged airline operators to support and take ownership of the process to ensure the event’s success, which he described as a unique opportunity to rebrand Nigeria’s aviation space and restore global business confidence.
Delivering a keynote presentation, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria International Air Show, Bria Williams, extended appreciation to the Ministry for its support, particularly the provision of a dedicated secretariat for the event.
She highlighted the Air Show as a transformative initiative aimed at showcasing Nigeria’s aviation potential, enhancing regional connectivity, and promoting intra-African trade, tourism, and investment.
“This Air Show will be a platform to attract strategic investors and aviation partners, bridge regional connectivity gaps, and foster collaboration between financial institutions and the aviation sector,” she said.
Williams stressed the importance of leveraging the air show to build aviation infrastructure, strengthen Nigeria’s economy, and project the country as a favorable destination for global aviation partnerships.
Several international airline operators and private investors attended the session, including representatives from ValueJet Airline, Air France, Badr Airlines, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco, and Turkish Airlines.
The stakeholders expressed their support and pledged commitment to the shared vision for Nigeria’s Air Show and the broader goal of advancing the country’s aviation sector.
The Nigeria International Air Show is expected to be a premier event that will not only spotlight Nigeria’s readiness for global aviation business but also serve as a catalyst for regional integration and sustainable economic growth.