A Century of Aviation in Nigeria: A Comprehensive Chronicle
Nigeria’s aviation sector is poised to witness a significant event as stakeholders gather to celebrate the launch of a comprehensive book documenting the industry’s 100-year journey. Titled "100 Years of Civil Aviation In Nigeria: History, Issues and Prospects," the book, authored by seasoned aviation journalist Wole Shadare, promises to be a landmark publication offering an in-depth exploration of the nation’s aviation evolution. The launch event, scheduled for Friday, May 23, 2025, at the Golfview Hotel in Lagos, is expected to draw a distinguished audience, including key figures in the aviation industry, government officials, and aviation enthusiasts.
The book’s unveiling signifies a momentous occasion, marking a century of aviation progress in Nigeria. From its humble beginnings to its current status, the industry has witnessed a remarkable transformation, punctuated by both triumphs and challenges. Shadare’s work delves into this rich history, providing a detailed account of the key milestones, pivotal moments, and influential personalities that have shaped Nigerian aviation. The book’s 25 chapters meticulously chronicle the evolution of the sector, offering a comprehensive overview of its growth and development.
The author’s meticulous research and access to diverse source materials ensure that the book provides a comprehensive and authoritative account of Nigeria’s aviation history. By weaving together historical facts, contemporary issues, and future prospects, Shadare presents a compelling narrative that captures the essence of the industry’s journey. The book examines the regulatory landscape, the evolution of aviation agencies, the complexities of bilateral air services agreements, and the contentious debates surrounding national carrier aspirations. It also delves into the socio-economic impact of aviation in Nigeria, exploring its contribution to national development, job creation, and connectivity.
The presence of distinguished personalities at the book launch underscores its significance within the aviation community. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, is expected to grace the occasion, alongside other prominent figures such as Capt. Chris Najomo, Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, and Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria. Their attendance highlights the importance of the book as a valuable resource for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers seeking to understand the complexities and nuances of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The book has garnered praise from industry veterans, including Dr. Harold Demuren, former Director-General of the NCAA, who penned the foreword. Demuren commends the author’s meticulous research and insightful analysis, describing the book as a valuable contribution to aviation literature. He emphasizes the book’s relevance to a wide range of stakeholders, including aviation professionals, airline operators, service providers, policymakers, and students. Its comprehensive coverage of historical developments, contemporary challenges, and future prospects makes it an essential resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the industry.
The book launch will also feature the inaugural Aviation Metric Colloquium, an annual event designed to bring together decision-makers and experts to discuss critical issues affecting the aviation sector. The theme of the first edition, "Issues in the growth and development of aviation in Nigeria: A critical perspective," underscores the colloquium’s objective of fostering dialogue and collaboration to address the challenges facing the industry. The colloquium is expected to provide a platform for insightful discussions, generating innovative solutions to promote the sustainable growth and development of Nigerian aviation. The combination of the book launch and the colloquium creates a unique opportunity for stakeholders to engage in meaningful conversations about the future of the industry.
