HADI Sirika, Minister of State for Aviation, has unveiled the name and logo of the Nigeria’s new national carrier, Nigeria Air.
The unveiling ceremony was held on Wednesday at the ongoing International Air show at Farnborough International Airshow, London.
At the event, Sirika said the National Carrier will be led and driven by the private sector.
“This is an important day for Nigeria — the largest economy in Africa, largest population, GDP of around half a billion dollars, and the only true aviation player in West and Central Africa,” Sirika said.
“Nigeria has unfortunately not been a serious player in Aviation for a long time. We used to be a dominant player, through Nigeria Airways, but sadly not anymore.
“This will be a national carrier that is private sector led and driven. It is a business, not a social service. The government will not be involved in running it or deciding who runs it. The investors will have full responsibility for this.
“The Nigerian government will not own more than 5% (maximum) of the new national carrier. The government will not be involved in running it or deciding who runs it.”
On Tuesday, Sirika had said that the first set of five aircraft that will signal the official kickoff of the new national carrier will be in Nigeria by December 19 this year, adding that negotiations are already ongoing with Airbus in that regards.
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!???????????????????????????????????????????????? pic.twitter.com/L2AA6fOzyk
— Hadi Sirika (@hadisirika) July 16, 2018
Sirika said he is taking advantage of the Farnborough Air Show to establish a Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Nigeria, discuss the concession of some airports in the country and other components of the Aviation Roadmap of the Nigerian government.