FG unveils Nigeria Air as it’s new flag carrier

The Nigerian government has announced ‘Nigeria Air’ as its new flag carrier years after the liquidation of its former – Nigeria Airways.

At the unveiling held at Farnborough Air Show in London recently, the Minister of State for Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika explained that the government will only provide the private investors full responsibility to manage the new carrier,

“It is a business, not a social service. Government will not be involved in running it or deciding who runs it. The investors will have full responsibility for this.” He said.

The airshow, a biennial event brings together aircraft manufacturers, engine manufacturers, aircraft leasing companies, aviation consultants and marketers for businesses purposes. According to the minister, the UK air show was an opportunity to negotiate with airline manufacturers to get the most competitive and best value-for-money deals for Nigeria.

Mr Sirika further explained that the show would provide an opportunity to establish a Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Nigeria.

The minister had earlier tweeted: “Negotiating Aircraft orders with Airbus at Farnborough ahead of National Carrier unveiling on Wednesday.

“Negotiations with Boeing and other OEMs tomorrow. Met with Standard Chartered Bank earlier. All is looking good!”

Mr Sirika also explained that the Federal Government was following Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) guidelines to ensure due processes in the arrangement.

Consequently, he added, the government had appointed the Transaction Advisers to work out modalities for the carrier.