The Federal Government has officially chosen Abuja as the host city for the Nigeria International Air Show, scheduled for December 2025. This decision follows a comprehensive evaluation conducted by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, which assessed Lagos, Uyo, and Abuja as potential venues. Ultimately, the Ministry selected Abuja due to its central location, superior accessibility, and better logistical capacity for both international and domestic participants.
In a joint statement released on Thursday, Odutayo Oluseyi, Head of Press and Public Affairs at the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, confirmed Abuja’s selection. Additionally, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, emphasized the need for inter-ministerial collaboration—particularly with the Ministry of Interior—to ensure the event’s success.
Federal Ministries Join Forces for Air Show Success
To guarantee a smooth and secure air show, the Ministry of Aviation is actively working with the Ministry of Interior. During a courtesy visit on July 17, 2025, Dr. Kana acknowledged the Ministry of Interior’s key role in supporting the event through its oversight of immigration, civil defence, and traffic management agencies.
He stated, “We consider the Ministry of Interior a critical partner in making the 2025 Nigeria International Air Show a success.”
Furthermore, he explained that after conducting a thorough assessment of the Lagos, Uyo, and Abuja airports, the Ministry settled on Abuja for its strategic advantage and ease of access.
Air Show to Attract Global Aviation Leaders
Undoubtedly, the air show will serve as a platform to showcase Nigeria’s aviation capabilities and attract global investors, marketers, exhibitors, and decision-makers. The event aims to strengthen Nigeria’s international aviation profile while boosting foreign direct investment in the sector.
In preparation for the event, several agencies under the Ministry of Interior—such as the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)—have committed to playing vital roles.
Immigration, Safety, and Logistics Take Center Stage
As part of the planning process, Dr. Kana stressed the importance of seamless immigration protocols, especially for the hundreds of expected international guests. He also confirmed that the Nigerian Air Force and air traffic control teams will be on hand to manage logistics and ensure airspace safety throughout the event.
In response, Dr. Magdalena Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, assured the aviation delegation of full cooperation. She emphasized that the Ministry would streamline Nigeria’s e-visa application system to allow faster processing and easier access for attendees. Moreover, she recommended that each agency involved should receive clearly defined responsibilities to avoid overlap and confusion.
Stakeholders Strengthen Operational Plans
To further enhance planning efficiency, the Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, called for early estimates of expected attendees. She explained that advance data would enable her agency to process visas promptly and avoid delays at entry points.
In addition, Air Vice Marshal Tajudeen Oladele Yusuf confirmed that the Nigerian Air Force had already established a technical subcommittee to coordinate its support for the event. At the same time, Engr. Godwin Balang, Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), stated that the NCAA remains fully prepared to provide regulatory approvals and technical oversight.
Air Show Set to Elevate Nigeria’s Aviation Profile Globally
With Abuja confirmed as the host city and multiple agencies already mobilized, the Nigeria International Air Show 2025 is on track to become a landmark event. It promises not only to elevate Nigeria’s global standing in the aviation sector but also to spark infrastructure development and attract new investment into the country’s aerospace industry.
By strategically aligning its ministries and agencies, the Federal Government is setting the stage for a successful air show that will highlight Nigeria’s commitment to innovation, international cooperation, and aviation excellence.
