The Federal Government has dispelled rumours surrounding the revival of the Nigeria Air deal with Ethiopian Airlines.
Dr. Ibrahim Kana, the newly appointed permanent secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has clarified that there is no mandate to revive the controversial deal.
Kana’s statement comes on the heels of speculation that the federal government may have decided to revive the deal between Nigerian Air and Ethiopian Airlines, following his inaugural statement on Monday. However, Kana emphasized that future considerations for a national carrier will depend on favourable conditions and presidential guidance.
He said, “Since my inaugural statement on Monday at the hand-over ceremony, I have been inundated with inquiries about my reference to the revival of the National Carrier Project.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I never said that there is a mandate to revive the botched Nigeria Air deal with Ethiopian airline. I received no such instruction. I was only referring to the general vision of the administration to still consider a national carrier project if it is favourable to the country and under the guidance and directives of Mr. President and the honourable minister of aviation. I hope this clarifies all the ambiguities surrounding my earlier statement on this issue.
“On a personal note, I pledge absolute loyalty to the honourable minister and remain dedicated to working closely with him to drive the ministry’s agenda forward. Together, we will ensure that the future of aviation in Nigeria is bright, innovative, and reflective of the aspirations of our great nation.”
It is worth noting that a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos State nullified the sale of 49% equity stake in Nigeria Air to Ethiopian Airlines in 2024.
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