Aviation
THE Nigerian aviation industry witnessed a glamorous display of professional excellence as the prestigious titles of King and Queen of Air were officially conferred following a rigorous competitive showcase.
They were crowned after a live competition with 12 contestants at the 15th Nigeria Aviation Awards and Ministerial Dinner held on Friday night in Lagos.
The highlight of the event saw Blossom Ubani of Ibom Air and Adebote James of Arik Air emerge victorious, securing their spots as the new faces of service and professionalism in the sector.
The competition, which drew top-tier talent from various domestic carriers such as Value Jets, XEJet, Air Peace, Rano Air, Arik Air and Aero Contractors, was designed to test more than just poise.
Participants were evaluated on industry Knowledge, deep understanding of aviation safety and operations; Customer Service Excellence, demonstrating the high standards of hospitality expected in the skies; Crisis Management, Ability to handle high-pressure scenarios with grace among others.
The crowning of Ubani and James marks a significant achievement for their respective airlines.
Blossom Ubani’s win reinforces Ibom Air’s growing reputation for service consistency, while Adebote James’s victory highlights the seasoned expertise within the Arik Air team.
Industry observers noted that the “King and Queen of Air” initiative continues to serve as a vital platform for boosting morale among frontline aviation staff (Cabin Crew Members) and promoting a culture of excellence within the Nigerian airspace.
Other awardees were Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), operated by Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), was once again recognised for excellence, securing multiple prestigious awards at the 15th NIGAV awards.
The awards, which were determined through a competitive public and industry-wide voting process, are widely regarded as a benchmark for excellence in Nigeria’s aviation sector, celebrating organisations and individuals driving innovation, service quality, and growth within the industry.
At this year’s ceremony, MMA2 received top honours, including Best Nigeria Domestic Terminal of the Year and Best Airport Accessibility and Inclusivity Award. In addition, the Chairman of BASL, Dr. Wale Babalakin, was conferred with the Outstanding Aviation Entrepreneurial Award, while the Acting COO/Head of Aeronautics & Cargo Services, Mr. Remi Jibodu, was recognized as Passenger Terminal Manager of the Year.
The Best Nigeria Domestic Terminal of the Year award recognizes MMA2’s sustained excellence in terminal operations, customer service, orderliness, and overall passenger experience. In the terminal’s almost 19 years of operation, MMA2 has consistently delivered seamless and efficient travel experience, maintaining high operational standards while evolving with the needs of passengers and airline partners. Widely regarded as a beacon of hope in the Nigerian aviation sector, MMA2 continues to set the benchmark for airport terminal operations across the country.
Similarly, the Best Airport Accessibility and Inclusivity Award acknowledges MMA2’s unwavering commitment to providing a comfortable, accessible, and inclusive environment for all passengers. Over the years, the terminal has continued to enhance its facilities and service culture to ensure that every traveler enjoys a pleasant and memorable airport experience.
Speaking of these achievements, MMA2 management said: “We are deeply honoured by this recognition from NIGAV and the aviation industry at large. It strengthens our resolve to continue raising the bar. At MMA2, our commitment remains unwavering, to deliver the highest standards of safety, security, and passenger experience for every passenger who passes through our terminal. We will continue to invest in technology, training, and infrastructure to ensure MMA2 remains Nigeria’s airport terminal of choice.
In the same vein, Air Peace, delivered a historic performance at the ceremony, securing an unprecedented seven awards in a single night; a record achievement that reinforces its leadership in safety, innovation, and service excellence.
Air Peace’s wins cut across major categories, including Airline Executive Chief of the Year (Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman & CEO), Nigerian Commercial Airline of the Year, Nigeria’s Best West Africa Sub-Regional Airline of the Year, Best Air Travel Mobile App of the Year, Best In-flight Magazine (Alice Magazine), Best Airport Lounge of the Year, and Pilot of the Year (Male Category, Captain Callistus Ifeanyi).
Notably, three awards, including Dr. Allen Onyema’s leadership honour, Alice Magazine, and the West Africa Sub-Regional Airline title, were retained for a second consecutive year, underscoring consistency and sustained excellence.
Speaking after the ceremony, Air Peace spokesperson, Mr. Efe Osifo-Whiskey, described the recognition as both humbling and motivating, noting that it reflects the airline’s commitment to raising standards, enhancing passenger experience, and strengthening Nigeria’s position as a key aviation hub in Africa. He credited the achievement to the vision of leadership and the dedication of staff across all operations.
The event, with the theme: ” Industry Rebirth” brought together top government officials, aviation regulators and private sector leaders to celebrate excellence and chart a greater path for the nation’s airspace.
NIGAV Awards continues to serve as a benchmark for transparency and cohesion in Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem, rewarding integrity and inspiring continuous improvement among industry players.
Other industry players were also awarded for excellence and for outstanding performances.
A.I
April 20, 2026
Tags: Air Peace Arik Air King and Queen of Air Rano Air Value Jets XEJet