BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
As the federal government fine-tunes modalities to host Nigeria’s first-ever International Airshow, Arik Air, one of Nigeria’s flagship carriers and a dominant player in West and Central African aviation, has announced plans to be a major exhibitor at the event slated for December 2–4, 2025, in Abuja.
The air show, initiated by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, is designed to establish aviation as a critical driver of economic growth and innovation across Africa.
Billed to attract a wide spectrum of global aviation stakeholders, ranging from commercial and business aviation operators to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), regulators, aerospace bodies, defence institutions, policymakers, and high-net-worth investors, the airshow marks a major step in Nigeria’s ambition to reposition itself as an aviation hub.
For Arik Air, participation in the maiden edition is both strategic and symbolic.
It presents the airline with an opportunity to consolidate its market relevance, showcase its evolving brand identity, and rekindle partnerships across the global aviation value chain.
The event will also serve as a platform for reconnecting with international partners, strengthening industry alliances, and reinforcing Arik’s commitment to reshaping Nigeria’s aviation narrative.
Chief Executive Officer of Arik Air, Captain Roy Ilegbodu, said the airline is excited to be part of a transformative moment for the sector.
“Arik Air’s participation in the airshow aligns with our mission to become a dominant air-services brand, globally admired for world-class operating, safety, and service delivery standards, while continuing to promote Nigeria’s image at home and abroad,” he stated.
Captain Ilegbodu further highlighted the airline’s alignment with national objectives, adding, “We are proud to associate with and support the efforts of the Federal Government in building a solid foundation for the growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry.”
BAs preparations intensify, the Federal Government has put in place high-level safety measures ahead of the opening day.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced that a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued, temporarily restricting flights into Abuja during scheduled aerial displays by the Nigeria Air Force.
During an inspection of the airside venue at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Keyamo explained that the Nigeria Air Force will perform air displays on the first and last days of the event, necessitating temporary closures of the Abuja airspace.
“The Nigeria Airspace Management Agency has already issued NOTAM.
For the brief period when there will be air displays, airlines have been told not to fly in or out… not to fly into Abuja for that period, while the sky is agog with displays,” he said.
Emphasising the global relevance of such events, the Minister drew parallels with the Farnborough Airshow in the UK, the Paris Airshow, and the Dubai Airshow, international platforms that have shaped aviation advancements for decades.
He stressed that despite being the country’s debut edition, the Nigeria International Airshow is a crucial platform for showcasing national capabilities.
“We are expecting foreign visitors, foreign airlines, and foreign investors to come and see what we have to offer… Now is the best time to showcase the potential of our industry,” he affirmed.
As Nigeria prepares to host the world, Arik Air stands ready to play a defining role in what promises to be a historic moment for the continent’s aviation landscape.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
