Nigeria to Host First-Ever International Airshow in Abuja, December 2025
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to host the country’s first-ever International Airshow in Abuja in December 2025, marking a major milestone in the nation’s aviation history.
The event, which is expected to draw global industry leaders, aircraft manufacturers, investors, and aviation enthusiasts, will be organised through a partnership between the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Nigerian Air Force.
During a recent briefing in Abuja, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, confirmed that the airshow will be entirely funded by the private sector, with no public funds allocated to its organisation.
He noted that the federal government will only provide necessary infrastructure, such as access to airports and airfields, to facilitate the smooth running of the event. According to the minister, the show will help boost Nigeria’s image as a growing aviation hub and create opportunities for partnerships and investments in the aviation and aerospace sectors.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, stated that an eight-member joint committee has been inaugurated to oversee preparations for the event, including coordination with international stakeholders, logistics, and security. The committee, made up of representatives from the ministry and the Nigerian Air Force, has already begun consultations and venue assessments.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, has pledged full support for the event, promising a spectacular aerial display and technical contributions from the Nigerian Air Force. He described the airshow as a landmark opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s military aviation capabilities alongside civil aviation achievements, all under one platform.
The airshow, which will span three days, is expected to feature static aircraft displays, in-flight demonstrations, exhibitions from leading global aircraft manufacturers, and high-level panel sessions on aviation policy, innovation, and investment. Industry leaders, commercial airline operators, aerospace companies, technology developers, and maintenance service providers are expected to participate. Over 15 aircraft manufacturers have already indicated interest in attending, according to the event organisers.
The Nigeria International Airshow 2025 also aims to promote the country’s aviation sector within the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), initiatives aimed at fostering regional integration and cross-border connectivity.
The event is anticipated to attract thousands of visitors from within and outside Africa, providing opportunities for local businesses and tourism in the federal capital. Officials say the airshow will not only position Nigeria as a regional aviation leader but also drive job creation, infrastructure development, and innovation in air transport.
Preparations are underway, with the final venue in Abuja to be confirmed soon. The Federal Government has invited stakeholders across the aviation value chain to participate in what is being described as a transformative step for the sector and a bold signal that Nigeria is open for global aviation business.
