…says ministry would facilitate requests to international airlines operating Nigeria–Vietnam route to sponsor Karibi-George’s travel as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility
By Sam Ovie
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Published on July 1, 2026
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2 min read
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Hon. Festus Keyamo, has pledged the support of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development for Miss World Nigeria 2026, Queen Tamunosoye Karibi-George, as she prepares to represent Nigeria at the Miss World 2026 pageant in Vietnam.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the reigning beauty queen and her delegation to the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, Keyamo described beauty pageants as strategic platforms for promoting Nigeria’s image, tourism and womanhood, stressing that aviation and tourism are closely linked.
He said the ministry would facilitate requests to international airlines operating the Nigeria–Vietnam route to sponsor Karibi-George’s travel as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), adding that such support would help project Nigeria’s image on the global stage.
Drawing parallels with the historic victory of Agbani Darego, Keyamo expressed confidence that Karibi-George has the potential to make Nigeria proud, noting that the country should rally behind her early in the competition.
The minister also proposed the use of Nigeria’s international airports to showcase tourism ambassadors through large welcome displays, while revealing ongoing discussions with Air Peace on a possible tourism promotion trip to Barbados after the Vietnam pageant.
Earlier, Karibi-George appealed for the ministry’s support, describing her participation in the global competition as an opportunity to promote Nigeria and advocate for greater inclusion of persons living with disabilities through her “Beyond Labels” initiative under the Beauty With a Purpose project.
She said the campaign promotes awareness, education and inclusivity for children with special needs, urging Nigerians to look beyond disabilities and recognise the potential of every individual.
Karibi-George pledged to represent Nigeria with pride, resilience and excellence when she competes in Vietnam. The visit concluded with the presentation of an award to the minister by the reigning Miss World Nigeria.
