The Federal Government has announced plans to host Nigeria’s first-ever International Air Show in Abuja in December 2025.
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation, Ibrahim Kana, made the announcement in a statement, highlighting the need for collaboration with the Ministry of Interior to ensure the success of the event.
The event is expected to feature wide international participation, with invitations to be extended to civil aviation authorities across the globe. The Nigeria Air Force and Air Traffic Controllers will be fully engaged to ensure a seamless air show.
Kana emphasized the importance of seamless coordination, especially around visa and security operations, given the expected influx of international marketers, investors, and aviation stakeholders.
He noted that agencies under the Interior Ministry, such as the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Federal Road Safety Corps, are vital to the success of the event.
The Federal Government has selected Abuja as the venue for the air show due to its “strategic location and accessibility.” Kana hinted at the possibility of President Bola Tinubu attending the show, reaffirming the government’s commitment to delivering a world-class international air show that will promote Nigeria’s aviation sector and attract global industry stakeholders.
The Ministry of Interior has welcomed the collaboration and assured of full support. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalena Ajani, said the online visa application system will be optimized for ease of access for visitors attending the air show.
The Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, highlighted the importance of data-sharing and projections, saying there is a need to receive an estimated number of expected visitors to enable the NIS to tailor a visa issuance process that minimizes the need for online applications on an individual basis.
The Nigerian Air Force has also declared its unwavering support for the air show, with a technical subcommittee already working to address emerging issues. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has assured that it will provide necessary authorizations and regulatory guidance to ensure the event’s success.
The International Air Show is expected to promote Nigeria’s aviation sector and attract global industry stakeholders. With the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering a world-class event, the air show is set to be a major milestone in Nigeria’s aviation history.
SOURCE : PUNCH
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