Reps call on Tinubu to halt progress on Nigeria Air.

Following a thorough assessment of the Nigeria Air project, the House of Representatives has called upon President Bola Tinubu to establish a high-level Presidential committee responsible for conducting a comprehensive review of the project’s processes. Rep. Nnolim Nnaji, the Chairman of the Aviation Committee, made this announcement in Abuja.Expressing deep dissatisfaction, the committee highlighted its concerns regarding the former Minister of Aviation’s decision to commence the operations of Nigeria Air, disregarding an existing court injunction against such actions. Furthermore, the committee noted that there were no provisions in place to ensure the long-term sustainability of the airline’s operations.Upon conducting a meticulous review of the process, it was evident that the exercise was characterized by a high level of opacity, secrecy, and poor execution. These flaws have the potential to subject Nigeria to ridicule and damage its reputation within the international community.It is important to clarify that both the Committee and the National Assembly had no involvement or role in the alleged launch of Nigeria Air or any related activities. This statement serves to set the record straight.The committee and the parliament want to emphasize that they are not against the idea of Nigeria having a National Carrier. In fact, they believe that having a National Carrier is highly desirable for the Nigerian people and the nation as a whole.Nevertheless, the committee emphasized that any process related to establishing a National Carrier should be transparent and inclusive. They made it clear that they would not tolerate any individual or group attempting to exploit the project as a means to embezzle public funds.Consequently, the committee directs the Federal Ministry of Aviation and all stakeholders involved in the Nigeria Air project to promptly halt flight operations and cease all other activities related to Nigeria Air.Additionally, the committee advises the Federal Ministry of Aviation, in collaboration with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), to designate certain Nigerian Indigenous Airlines as Flag Carriers. This designation would enable them to leverage Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASAs) and reap the benefits associated with such agreements.The agreement was reportedly made by Nigeria as an interim measure, pending the establishment of a sustainable National Carrier. This approach allows Nigeria to benefit from the agreement while awaiting the establishment of a viable National Carrier.In conclusion, the total funding required to initiate the airline is estimated at $250,000,000.He further stated that the Nigerian government, along with its citizens, has the capability to raise the necessary funds without subjecting itself to the ridicule that has been brought about by this recent episode.