The Nigerian government’s Nigeria Air project remains suspended as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, awaits President Bola Tinubu’s decision.
This announcement was reaffirmed by Tunde Moshood, the Special Assistant to the Minister, in response to Ethiopian Airlines’ recent comments suggesting Nigeria’s disinterest in the project.
Moshood emphasized that the government’s current position is to await the President’s verdict.
Ethiopian Airlines CEO, Mesfin Tasew, recently stated that Nigeria no longer intends to partner with a foreign airline for the project. This comes two months after the government reiterated the indefinite suspension of Nigeria Air.
Keyamo had criticized the initial deal with Ethiopian Airlines, arguing it was unfair to Nigerian airlines and could lead to foreign monopolization of the aviation sector.
Despite this setback, Ethiopian Airlines continues its multi-hub strategy in Africa and remains open to developing joint ventures and sister airlines across the continent. Tasew highlighted that the airline is evaluating proposals from various African airlines seeking support.
Source: Punch