During the 10th Aviation Stakeholders Forum held in Abuja on Thursday, Senator Hadi Sirika, the Minister of Aviation, confirmed that Nigeria Air, the new national carrier, will commence operations before May 29, 2023. The minister attributed the delay of the airline’s operation to court cases and revealed that all Nigerian-owned airlines were invited to invest but declined due to a lack of belief in the project. However, Ethiopian Airlines was chosen as the preferred bidder due to its expertise and proven survival in the industry. Negotiations are ongoing with the airline group consortium.
Sirika highlighted several benefits of the national carrier, including reduced capital flight, the optimal benefit of BASA and SAATM, development of an aviation hub, contribution to the nation’s GDP, facilitation of hospitality and tourism, growth and development of the Nigerian Agricultural Sector, and job creation around the Agro-Cargo Terminals.
The Minister also addressed the issue of trapped funds belonging to foreign airlines operating in Nigeria, which has reached $743,721,097 as reported by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). While the ministry has limited power over foreign exchange matters handled by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), measures have been put in place to ensure the issue is resolved.
In conclusion, the commencement of operations for Nigeria Air is imminent, and the government is focused on addressing challenges facing the aviation industry, including the resolution of trapped funds belonging to foreign airlines. The national carrier is expected to contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth and development while also creating job opportunities.