The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled distinguished Nigerian veterans and aviators who will be honored for their pioneering contributions that have shaped the Nigerian aviation industry over the last century.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the event in an X publication on Saturday, describing the awardees as “icons whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for the success of Nigerian aviation.”
He also shared photographs of some of the honorees ahead of the event scheduled for Monday, December 1, 2025 at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Center in Abuja.
According to him, the recognition is part of activities marking 100 years of aviation in Nigeria, tracing the evolution of the sector from the colonial era to its current status as a critical contributor to the country’s economy.
“The first aircraft to land in Nigeria was in Kano in 1925. As a result, this year we celebrate 100 years of aviation in Nigeria. On Monday, December 1, 2025, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, we will celebrate this milestone with a series of performances and events, including honoring veterans of the aviation industry over the past 100 years. We are inviting everyone interested in aviation to the event,” he wrote.
Below is the list of some of the Nigerian veterans who have shaped the aviation industry such as shared by the Minister of Aviation:
Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, founder of Okada Air.
Late Alhaji Ahmadu Dan Kabo, founder of Kabo Air.
Captain Robert Hayes, Nigeria’s first certified pilot.
Chief Mbazulike Amechi, former Minister of Aviation and instrumental in the establishment of Nigerian Airways.
Chief Allen Ifechukwu Onyeama, founder of Air Peace, promoted local content and invested in training young Nigerians.
Dr. Emmanuel Enekwechi, contributed to the growth of the aviation industry.
Captain August Okpe, Founder and CEO of Okpe Aviation Services, Nigeria’s first indigenous aeronautical engineering company.
Senator Hadi Sirika, former Minister of Aviation, initiated policies such as launching a national airline.
Captain Rabiu Hamisu Yadudu pioneered the Nigerian aviation industry and transformed airports into world-class facilities.
Captain Ado Sanusi
Chief Wale Babalakin
Mr. José Arumemi
Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu
Captain Dele Ore
Captain Wale Makinde
Captain Ibrahim Mshella
Captain Dapo Olumide
Mrs. Bimbo Sosina
Captain Benoni Briggs
Mrs Deola Olukunle
Dr Thomas Ogunbangbe
Captain Edward Boyo
Dr Gbenga Olowo
Elder Dr. Soji Amusan
Eng. Awogbemi Clemente
Sen Musa Adede
Georg Eder MBA
Captain Prex Porbeni
Mrs. Folashade Odutola
Dr. Taiwo Afolabi OON
Captain Fola Adeola
Dr. Seindemi Fadeni
Captain Chinyere Kali
Harold Demure
Akin Olateru
Mr. George Urensi
Mrs. Deola Yesufu
Ing. Babatunde Obadofin
Dr Ayo Obilana
Captain Felix Iheanacho
Captain Peter Adenihun
Captain Jonathan Ibrahim
Pa Odeleye AC
Captain Toju Ogidi
Pa Abel Kalu Ukonu