November 29, (THEWILL) — The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, is set to lead a historic national ceremony marking 100 years of aviation in Nigeria, an event celebrating a century of innovation, resilience and growth that has defined the nation’s air transport industry.
The Centenary Celebration will hold on Monday, December 1, 2025, at the African Hall, Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, starting at 10 a.m.
The milestone highlights Nigeria’s journey since the first aircraft touched down in Kano in 1925, honouring the pioneers whose efforts laid the foundation for modern aviation in the country.
A major feature of the commemoration is the recognition of 40 Legends of Aviation, pilots, engineers, administrators, air traffic controllers and industry visionaries whose decades of service shaped the sector’s evolution.
They will be honoured for their contributions to safety, regulation, capacity development and technological advancement.
The event will attract a wide gathering of international and domestic airlines, airport authorities, aviation agencies, ground handling firms, private operators, development partners, industry experts and policymakers.
Activities lined up include goodwill messages, documentary screenings, keynote presentations and the unveiling of commemorative projects.
Keyamo noted that the centenary offers an opportunity not only to celebrate the past but also to reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to building a safer, stronger and globally competitive aviation industry.
He added that the progress recorded over the last century reflects the dedication of early pioneers and the continued support of partners across the world.
The ceremony is expected to serve as a moment of reflection and renewed collaboration as Nigeria prepares for the next century of aviation—anchored on innovation, infrastructure expansion, safety enhancement and strategic partnerships.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
