President Bola Tinubu has officially tasked the newly appointed Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, with two crucial objectives: bringing the Nigeria Air project back on track and reforming Nigerian airports to align with international standards.
Dr. Kana shared this directive during a meeting with heads of agencies and staff at the Ministry of Aviation in Abuja. According to him, when he received his deployment letter, he was given clear and specific instructions from both President Tinubu and the Head of Service of the Federation. These instructions included two key priorities: to ensure the successful launch of the long-awaited Nigeria Air project and to lead efforts to overhaul the operations and facilities of airports across Nigeria.
“We all know that there is no better time to have a national carrier than now. The President has charged me with ensuring that the Nigeria Air project becomes a reality. Additionally, we must sanitize our airports to meet global best practices,” Kana stated.
Kana emphasized the significance of his new role, particularly in the context of the ongoing efforts to meet the renewed hope agenda of the President. He stressed that working closely with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, would be central to achieving these goals. “My priority, day and night, will be to ensure that we move forward with the Nigeria Air project and simultaneously work to improve the quality and safety of our airports.”
Regarding the Nigeria Air project, Kana promised that it would come to fruition within a relatively short time frame. He expressed confidence that this initiative, which aims to establish a national carrier for Nigeria, would not only create jobs but also boost the nation’s aviation sector. Furthermore, Kana highlighted the importance of ensuring that Nigerian airports operate efficiently and comfortably for passengers.
“Passengers should feel at home when they arrive at our airports. We want a seamless experience for travelers, ensuring smooth transitions from one part of the airport to another, with the highest level of customer service,” Kana said.
This renewed focus on the Nigeria Air project comes after the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, had earlier declared the indefinite suspension of the project, citing concerns that it might be a move to serve the interests of Ethiopian Airlines rather than fostering a truly Nigerian airline. However, with President Tinubu’s backing, Kana’s appointment signals a fresh push to move the national carrier initiative forward, alongside the broader vision for Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.
The revival of the Nigeria Air project is expected to be a key component of the administration’s efforts to rejuvenate Nigeria’s aviation industry, providing economic benefits, improving connectivity, and establishing a globally competitive airline. The overhaul of Nigeria’s airports will also be an essential step in positioning the country as a key hub for air travel in Africa.
