The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to developing world-class aviation infrastructure and capabilities, highlighting major strides in aircraft maintenance and training.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, made this known at the opening ceremony of Nigeria’s first-ever International Airshow.
The SGF noted that the Airshow aligns fully with President Tinubu’s broader vision of a safe, secure, and globally competitive aviation industry capable of stimulating economic growth, boosting tourism, enhancing national security, and positioning Nigeria as Africa’s aviation nerve centre.
“We have signed agreements with Boeing and Cranfield University to establish state-of-the-art MRO facilities, reducing the $200 million annual capital flight for overseas maintenance. Aero Contractors and XEJet are already driving this transformation with new hubs in Lagos and Abuja,” he stated.
Akume also commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his foresight, leadership, and impressive efforts in repositioning the aviation sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
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In his remarks, the Aviation Minister underscored the significance of the moment:
“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.
“For the first time, Nigeria, West Africa’s aviation hub and the gateway to Africa’s largest economy, joins the global community of nations that host world-class airshows.
“For decades, the question has been asked: When will Nigeria take its rightful place on the global aviation showcase circuit? Today, with this inaugural Airshow, we provide a clear and confident answer.”
The landmark event, the first of its kind in Nigeria’s aviation history, witnessed an impressive turnout of top government officials, international partners, industry stakeholders, aviation giants, and a broad spectrum of global manufacturers, innovators, and investors, who all graced the Airshow.