From left: Ag. Vice Chancellor, African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Mustapha Sheikh Abdulahi; Director General, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Capt. Chris Najomo; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Mahmud Adam Kambari; Representative of Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Obi Ozor; Former DG, NISB, Engr. Akin Olateru and Host, CEO NIGAV Centre/F.C.I. International Limited, Mr. Fortune Idu, during the 15th NIGAV Awards and Ministerial Dinner held in Lagos on Friday
It was glamour and glitz at the weekend as the Creme-dela-creme of the aviation sector gathered for the 15th edition of the Nigeria Aviation Awards and Ministerial Dinner (NIGAV) at its centre at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
The event, known for promoting air transport development honours and rewards outstanding achievements within the aviation sector.
Speaking at the event, Director General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo said the NIGAV Awards has become a symbol of excellence, transparency, and industry cohesion celebrating the very best of Nigerian aviation while inspiring continuous improvement across all facets of our ecosystem.
According to him, this year’s theme, “Industry Rebirth,” is both timely and inspiring as it reflects a renewed trajectory for Nigeria’s aviation sector one defined by resilience, reform, and results.
“Indeed, we are witnessing significant strides: from the consolidation of aircraft leasing frameworks, to certification of our aerodromes, ongoing modernization efforts at key gateways such as the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, enhanced intermodal connectivity, and the gradual expansion of airline fleets and route networks.
“These developments are not accidental; they are the product of deliberate policy direction, strong institutional collaboration, and visionary leadership. It is in furtherance to this that I specially acknowledge the transformational policies of the Honourable Minister, Festus Keyamo whose recognition tonight as an All-Time Champion of Aviation Growth is richly deserved. His unwavering commitment to reform, stakeholder engagement, and sectoral growth continues to provide the enabling environment for regulatory excellence and industry expansion.
“At the NCAA, our mandate remains clear: to ensure the highest standards of safety, security, economic viability and consumer protection in line with global best practices.”, he said.
Najomo, who was recognised as the Aviation CEO of the Year, dedicated the award to the Authority’s staff.
“I am deeply humbled to be recognised as the Aviation CEO of the Year. I accept this honour not as a personal achievement, but as a reflection of the collective efforts of the dedicated management and staff of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, whose professionalism and commitment continue to uphold Nigeria’s reputation as a safe and globally respected aviation system.
He commended the NIGAV Awards Committee for sustaining initiative over the past fifteen years, and for inspiring excellence, rewarding integrity, and charting a bold path for the continued rebirth of the aviation sector.
Fortune Idu, organiser of the programme said over 200 awards have been given to deserving individuals since inception.
The event incorporates the Ministerial dinner, annual aviation performance review and outlook; the live cabin contest for the King and Queen of the Air crown and Charity fundraising for the less privileged, posing as symbol of excellence and humanitarianism.
Also speaking, Commissioner of Transportation in Enugu State, Dr. Obi Ozor, who represented the Governor and who was awarded the most supportive Governor, pledged to continue to be a beacon of hope in the aviation sector.
“We are impressed and grateful to be part of aviation developments in Nigeria, from the launch of Enugu Air to the certification of the airport and eventual concessioning of the airport, we will continue to be a beacon of hope in d sector”., he said.
Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister, Festus Keyamo received an All-Time Champion of Aviation Growth for his unwavering commitment to sector reforms.
Industry icons such as Director General, NCAA Capt. Chris Najomo; Managing Directors, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria; Olubunmi Kuku, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency; Engr. Umar Ahmed Farouk; Vice Chancellor, African Aviation and Aerospace University, Mustapha Sheikh Abdulahi;; Managing Director, Aerospace Contractors, Capt. Ado Sanusi; Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA, Michael Achimugu; Director of Operations, NAMA, Mr. John Tayo among others were recognised for their contributions to the development of the sector in past year.
Airlines, ground handling companies, Jet fuel companies and other brands were also recognitioned in various categories.
