Arik Air will be among the major exhibitors at the inaugural Nigeria international airshow scheduled to take place from December 2–4, 2025, in Abuja.

In November, 2024, Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development, announced plans to host Nigeria’s first-ever international air show in Lagos in 2025.

He said the international air show aims to position Nigeria as the hub for the next major advancements in aviation on the African continent.

In a statement on Friday, Arik Air said the event will bring together commercial and business aviation operators, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), regional regulators, defense and aerospace bodies, government institutions, and high-net-worth industry stakeholders.

“Arik Air’s participation provides a strategic platform for the airline to reinforce its market position, showcase its brand evolution, and re-engage the aviation community,” the airline said.

“It will also afford the airline the opportunity to reconnect with key stakeholders, including local and international partners, policy leaders, and industry influencers within the global aviation ecosystem.”

Speaking on the development, Roy Ilegbodu, chief executive officer (CEO) of Arik Air, expressed optimism about the significance of the maiden edition, adding that the airline remains committed to backing national efforts.

“Arik Air’s participation in the airshow aligns with our mission to become a dominant air-services brand, globally admired for world-class operating, safety, and service delivery standards, while continuing to promote Nigeria’s image at home and abroad,” Ilegbodu said.

“We are proud to associate with and support the efforts of the Federal Government in building a solid foundation for the growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry.”

Arik Air said it is eager to play a part in the success of the historic event and strengthen its role in the future of aviation growth in Nigeria and across the African continent.

On August 8, 2024, the federal government lifted the suspension on the operations of Arik Air.

The airline’s planes were grounded over a dispute between Atlas Petroleum and Arik Air.