The Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI) has congratulated Nigeria on marking 100 years of civil aviation, describing the milestone as a moment for reflection, evaluation, and renewed commitment to the industry’s growth.
Nigeria’s aviation journey began on November 1, 1925, when three British Royal Air Force De Havilland DH.9A aircraft, commanded by Air Marshal Sir Arthur Coningham, made the first recorded landing on Nigerian soil in Maiduguri before proceeding to Kano — an event that signaled the dawn of aviation activities in the country.
According to ASRTI, the past century has been characterized by both “pains, gains and prospects,” with progress achieved across multiple sectors including airline operations, regulation, training, airport development, ground handling, safety oversight, and accident investigation.
In recognition of this landmark, the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in collaboration with ASRTI, will host a grand centenary celebration on December 1, 2025, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja. Themed “100 Years of Aviation in Nigeria: The Gains, The Pains and The Prospects,” the event will feature seminars, panel discussions, and paper presentations by veterans, professionals, and experts within the aviation industry.
The day’s activities will culminate in an Honours and Awards Night, where outstanding industry pioneers and contributors will be recognized. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to grace the occasion alongside key dignitaries and stakeholders.
ASRTI Chairman, representing Nigeria’s foremost aviation think-tank, noted that the centenary provides “an opportunity for introspection — to assess achievements, admit past mistakes, and identify opportunities for future innovation and growth.”
The group also applauded the efforts of state governments in providing aviation infrastructure over the decades and encouraged them to host related events within the centenary period to showcase opportunities in their regions, including aviation career days for young people.
ASRTI further commended the Nigerian Air Force for its contributions to civil aviation safety and development, and acknowledged its role in the upcoming celebrations.
Established 22 years ago, the Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI) has been at the forefront of aviation advocacy in Nigeria, issuing over 30 communiqués and 50 press releases since 2003, and actively engaging in public hearings and ministerial advisory roles to promote safety, security, and customer satisfaction in the sector.
ASRTI called on all stakeholders and international partners to join Nigeria in celebrating a century of civil aviation excellence and resilience.
