Airline operators label Nigeria Air a scam, say it was made to deceive Nigerians
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has labeled the bidding approval and launch of Nigeria Air as a fraud. They argue that the failed project was designed to deceive Nigerians and harm the country’s indigenous airlines.
AON President Alhaji Abdulmunaf Yunusa praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, for halting the project. Yunusa said, “The bold and patriotic actions taken by the court today clearly show that the entire bidding approval and so-called unveiling of the national carrier was nothing but a sham. It was a covert plan to undermine Nigerian airlines and transfer our large aviation market—supported by over 85 Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASA) worldwide—to Ethiopian Airlines without investing in the Nigerian economy. This was done to satisfy the interests of a few selfish individuals.”
Yunusa continued, “We are grateful to the court for standing firm against significant pressure and for clearing AON and other Nigerian airlines of wrongdoing in their efforts to protect Nigeria’s interests. This proves they are the true champions of the common man.”
He also expressed appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government and Mr. Keyamo’s decision to suspend the Nigeria Air project, which was initially planned by the former Minister of Aviation. “Mr. Keyamo has shown courage by aligning with the truth for the benefit of the country,” Yunusa added.
It is worth noting that Justice A. Allagoa of the Federal High Court in Lagos ruled yesterday that the sale of Nigeria Air to Ethiopian Airlines was null and void.
