By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Federal Government is set to honour key figures who helped shape Nigeria’s aviation sector over the past century, as the country celebrates 100 years since the first aircraft landed on its soil.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), announced on Saturday that the event will take place on Monday, December 1, 2025, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
The centenary celebration will recognise veterans across the industry, including pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, and other professionals whose contributions laid the foundation for aviation development in Nigeria.
“This event is to honour the men and women whose service, resilience, and innovation helped build Nigeria’s aviation industry,” Keyamo said.
“It is also an opportunity to reflect on our journey and set new goals for the future.”
The ceremony is expected to attract top stakeholders from both local and international aviation communities.
According to the ministry, commemorative awards will be presented to 40 aviation legends who played instrumental roles in the growth of the sector.
Nigeria’s aviation history dates back to 1925, when the first aircraft landed in Kano. Since then, the country has grown to become one of Africa’s busiest air transport hubs, with a mix of state and privately owned carriers, international connections, and a network of airports across the country.
The upcoming event also aligns with ongoing government efforts to revitalise the aviation industry, including infrastructure upgrades, safety enhancements, and policy reforms aimed at attracting investment and positioning Nigeria as a key player in global aviation.
The centenary celebration will begin at 10 a.m. and will feature documentary screenings, keynote addresses, and tributes to the industry’s trailblazers.
