ASRTI, Aviation Ministry Roll Out Grand Plans for Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Centenary
The Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI) has congratulated Nigeria as the nation marks 100 years of civil aviation activities, tracing the historic journey back to 1 November 1925 when three British Royal Air Force De Havilland DH.9A aircraft, commanded by Air Marshal Sir Arthur Coningham, first landed in Maiduguri on their way to Kano from Helwan, Egypt.
In a statement signed by its President, Air Commodore (rtd) Ademola Onitiju, mni, the foremost aviation think-tank described the centenary milestone as a remarkable moment deserving national celebration.
ASRTI noted that the aviation sector contributes a little over 4 percent to national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in any country, adding that the Nigerian industry has recorded mixed experiences of progress, setbacks, and immense prospects over the past century.
These, the group said, cut across leadership, airline development, general aviation, airport expansion, regulatory growth, consumer protection, safety, fuel operations, ground handling, training, accident investigation, allied business, and other critical sub-sectors.
To commemorate the milestone, ASRTI disclosed that it is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, led by the Honourable Minister, Olorogun Festus Keyamo, CON, SAN, FCIArb (UK).
The Minister has directed that 1 December 2025 be designated for the major centenary programme.
The event will be held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, starting at 9:00am. Activities will include seminars, panel sessions, and presentations by aviation veterans, experts, regulators and practitioners.
Discussions will focus on the theme: “100 Years of Aviation in Nigeria: The Gains, The Pains and The Prospects.”
A special Honours and Awards Night will round off the day, recognising aviation veterans and stakeholders who have contributed significantly to the growth of the sector. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to grace the occasion.
ASRTI also applauded state governments that have invested in aviation infrastructure in recent years. It confirmed that correspondences have been sent to such states, inviting them to host their own celebration days between now and 1 November 2025.
States will be free to organise aviation opportunity showcases, partner with Chambers of Commerce, and host Aviation Career Days aimed at inspiring young Nigerians to explore profession paths within the sector. ASRTI and the Federal Ministry will attend such state events to show support.
The group stated that the centenary celebration is an opportunity for deep reflection, to review achievements, acknowledge mistakes, and identify future opportunities for a stronger, more prosperous aviation future.
ASRTI also commended the Nigerian Air Force for its contributions to civil aviation development and air safety over the decades.
Highlighting its own contributions, ASRTI recalled that it has released more than 30 communiqués and 50 industry press statements since 2003, and has been instrumental in advocacy, policy discussions, advisory services, and sectoral reforms.
It also referenced the impact of its quarterly Business Breakfast Meetings and webinars since 2015, which have generated 24 communiqués addressing critical sector challenges.
ASRTI invited the global aviation community to join in celebrating Nigeria’s 100 years of civil aviation.
