The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), has inaugurated a joint committee to finalise preparations for Nigeria’s maiden International Airshow slated for December 2025.
The move marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to position itself as a key player in global aviation, while promoting civil-military collaboration to enhance the country’s aerospace capabilities and economic prospects.
During a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Air Force headquarters in Abuja, the permanent secretary of the ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, mni, commended the NAF for its professionalism and longstanding service. He noted that the visit was aimed at strengthening ties and securing support for the successful hosting of the landmark airshow.
Kana emphasised that global airshows typically feature both civil and military aviation, and therefore appealed to the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), AM Hassan Bala Abubakar to leverage the NAF’s expertise and resources to help the committee deliver its mandate effectively and on schedule.
He outlined key expectations of the NAF’s involvement, including a captivating air display showcasing Nigeria’s air power, as well as a ceremonial parade to be held in honour of the President and visiting dignitaries. He further extended an invitation to the CAS to attend a strategic diplomatic meeting being arranged with ambassadors by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Kana also revealed that the ministry has already held successful talks with several foreign airline operators and stakeholders, many of whom have pledged their full cooperation and support for the event. He urged the committee to promptly determine a suitable venue for the airshow and work closely with all relevant stakeholders to finalise logistics.
The exhibition, he said, will attract leading global civil and defence aviation firms who will showcase their technologies, services, and innovations. He expressed optimism that the event will serve not only as a business platform but also as a window to promote Nigeria’s economy, culture and tourism to the world.
In response, Abubakar expressed the Air Force’s readiness to partner fully with the ministry. He described the airshow as a national pride and a historic opportunity for the NAF to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s global aviation reputation.
“We have capable hands and the technical expertise required to support this event. The committee has my full backing and should proceed with identifying the venue and finalising other operational modalities,” he said.
He thanked Kana for the collaborative gesture and pledged the Air Force’s unwavering support to ensure a successful event.
