Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development, has directed all airlines operating in Nigeria to give priority boarding to serving military personnel, ahead of first or business-class passengers.
Keyamo made the announcement on Tuesday during a stakeholder meeting to review preparations for the Centenary Celebration of Aviation in Nigeria and the country’s first-ever International Airshow, scheduled for December 2–4, 2025.
According to the minister, the new directive is a mark of respect and gratitude for the selfless service and sacrifices of men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“This is what is done in other countries, and it is not a bad thing to copy. It is the least we can do to honour our serving military personnel.
“Yes, I confirm that I reiterated this directive today,” Keyamo said in a post confirmed on his official X handle.
Ibrahim Kana, permanent secretary in the ministry, who is a member of the Centenary Airshow Organising Committee, described the decision as both “brilliant and symbolic.”
He added that the directive will be promptly communicated to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for implementation across all domestic and international airlines operating within Nigeria.
Kana noted that the NCAA will issue clear guidelines to airlines and airport operators covering the verification of military credentials, staff training for boarding procedures, and effective public communication to ensure smooth rollout.
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He further stated that airlines will be required to update their boarding systems to include a “serving military personnel” category in their check-in and announcement protocols.
According to the ministry, the measure will remain a permanent feature of air travel in Nigeria, symbolising unity, respect, and appreciation for those who defend the nation’s skies and sovereignty.
