Outgoing Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Sen. Hadi Sirika has emphasised that Nigeria Air is not merely a law, but an entity comparable to other airlines.
Sirika, who was speaking during the unveiling and reception of Nigeria Air at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the efforts of both the Nigerian and Ethiopian governments in bringing the airline alive again after a prolonged absence.
“We have accomplished our goals without any bias,” he stated. “This infrastructure has been missing in the aviation landscape of our nation. Nigeria Air Limited is an airline that corresponds in size and dynamics to Nigeria’s market, geography and fortune. The kind of infrastructure we are witnessing today under Nigeria Air is precisely what we need.”
Sirika clarified that Nigeria Air is an independent entity, separate from Nigeria’s laws and is the result of a partnership between Nigerian entrepreneurs and Ethiopian Airlines. He emphasised that there are no legal restrictions preventing the introduction of developmental projects for the benefit of the Nigerian people.
“It is within our rights to undertake endeavours that promote the general well-being of Nigeria and Nigerians. The aviation sector plays a central role in driving our economy and adding value to the GDP. This remains the government’s focus,” he explained.
Highlighting the growth of aviation in Nigeria, the outgoing minister stated that the industry experienced significant expansion before and even during the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of airlines and aircraft doubled between 2015 and the present.
When asked about the commencement of operations, Sirika responded, “Establishing an airline involves fulfilling certain conditions set by the regulators, namely the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Once this aircraft is here, we will initiate a demonstration flight to showcase our capabilities. The duration of the demonstration flight ranges from 0 to 48 hours, but it could be shorter, such as 2 or 5 hours, to demonstrate our capabilities. I trust that the NCAA will take the necessary steps to provide a clear date and time for takeoff.”
He further explained the business plan, stating, “Over the next five years, we plan to reach a fleet of 35 aircraft. It will be a gradual process, with aircraft arriving one after another. If everything goes as planned, by the end of the next five years, we will have achieved the target of 35 aircraft. Nigeria Air is a privately-led airline, with the government holding a 5 per cent stake. Eventually, it will be offered to the public for sale. The Boeing 737 Max is the chosen aircraft model.”
The chief commercial officer of Ethiopian Airlines at Bole International Airport, Lemma Gudete expressed his belief that Nigeria Air will become a billion-dollar company within five years.
“Strengthening ties between these two nations will enhance business relations and people-to-people connections. We are committed to sharing our expertise in aviation and supporting Nigeria’s economic growth. We thank the Nigerian government for choosing Ethiopian Airlines as a reliable partner, as we have consistently stood by the people of Nigeria, regardless of the circumstances,” he added.
