Nigeria’s Aviation Ministry Scribe Clarifies Controversial Statement on Reviving National Carrier Project

The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, in a bid to dispel confusion sparked by his earlier remarks, has clarified his position on the National Carrier Project.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, Dr. Kana addressed what he described as misinterpretations of his earlier statements, which had led to widespread speculation about the revival of the controversial Nigeria Air project.

Dr. Kana’s initial remarks, made during an interview in Abuja, suggested a strong commitment to establishing a national carrier. He was quoted as saying:

“While receiving my deployment letter, I received very clear instructions, very, very clear, with two tasks to achieve within this period by His Excellency, Mr. President, as well as the Head of Service of the Federation. One, to ensure that the Air Nigeria comes to be. All of us will agree that there is no better time to have an Air Nigeria than now.”

This statement was widely interpreted as a directive to revive the embattled Nigeria Air project, previously mired in controversy over its partnership with Ethiopian Airlines and eventual suspension.

However, Dr. Kana has since clarified that his comments were not an endorsement of the defunct arrangement but rather an expression of the administration’s broader vision to explore the feasibility of a national carrier under the directives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

“For the avoidance of doubt, I never said that there is a mandate to revive the botched Nigeria Air deal with Ethiopian Airlines. 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,” Dr. Kana stated in his press release today – 8th January 2024.

The Permanent Secretary expressed regret over the ambiguity caused by his earlier comments and emphasised his commitment to working closely with the Minister to advance Nigeria’s aviation agenda.

“Together, we will ensure that the future of aviation in Nigeria is bright, innovative, and reflective of the aspirations of our great nation,” he said.

This clarification comes at a time when public discourse surrounding the national carrier remains sensitive, following the controversies that plagued the Nigeria Air project.

Observers have noted the importance of clear communication to avoid misinterpretations that could derail policy objectives or lead to unnecessary public discontent.

Dr. Kana concluded by reiterating his dedication to the Ministry’s renewed hope agenda and assured Nigerians that any future steps regarding a national carrier would be guided by national interest and executive directives.

With this clarification and the initial remarks, the Nigerian public awaits further updates from the Ministry, particularly regarding whether the establishment of a national carrier would take effect or not.