The Nigeria Aviation (NIGAV Award Committee) has announced plans to host the 15th Nigeria Aviation Awards and Ministerial Dinner. Therefore, the flagship NIGAV event will take place on 17 April 2026 at the NIGAV Centre, MMIA, Ikeja, Lagos. The ceremony, themed Industry Rebirth, is expected to bring together top aviation stakeholders to celebrate excellence and progress across the sector.
For 15 years, NIGAV has served as a consistent platform for promoting best practices and industry harmony. In addition, the awards encourage healthy competition and recognise outstanding contributions across Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem. The event also features the Aviation Yearly Report, alongside the crowning of the King and Queen of the Air and a charity fundraiser supporting aviation professionals.
According to the organisers, NIGAV continues to reinforce the importance of recognising achievements in innovation, leadership, and operational efficiency. However, beyond recognition, the awards help boost morale and strengthen industry standards. In addition, they promote a safer and more customer-focused air transport system across Nigeria.
NIGAV and the Industry Rebirth Momentum
This year’s NIGAV theme, Industry Rebirth, reflects renewed optimism within the aviation sector. Therefore, recent developments such as aircraft leasing consolidation and infrastructure upgrades are shaping industry recovery. In addition, improvements in intermodal connectivity and fleet modernisation are enhancing operational performance.
The anticipated upgrade of Murtala Muhammed International Airport also signals a strategic shift towards improved passenger experience. Meanwhile, stakeholders expect these changes to strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness within the global aviation space.
The award results, released after a detailed nomination and voting process, reflect renewed confidence in sector leadership. Therefore, the Minister of Aviation and Space Development, Barr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, received Special Industry Recognition. He was honoured in the Aviation Leadership Excellence category as an All-Time Champion of Aviation Growth.
In addition, H.E. Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State emerged as the Best Aviation Supporting Governor. Meanwhile, Captain Chris O. Najomo, DGCA/CEO of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, was named Aviation Agency CEO of the Year. These recognitions highlight leadership contributions driving sector transformation.
Furthermore, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, received the Aviation Personality of the Year Award. Therefore, her leadership continues to shape airport management and passenger service delivery in Nigeria. Organisers confirmed that all winning organisations have been duly notified ahead of the ceremony.
As preparations intensify, NIGAV organisers emphasised that the event will go beyond celebration. However, it will also serve as a strategic platform for reflection, collaboration, and future planning. In addition, stakeholders are expected to engage in discussions that will influence policy direction and industry sustainability.
Finally, the 15th edition of NIGAV reinforces its long-standing role in shaping Nigeria’s aviation narrative. Therefore, the awards remain a vital instrument for recognising excellence, inspiring innovation, and driving continuous improvement across the sector.
