The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, has addressed the growing public interest surrounding his recent comments on the potential revival of Nigeria’s National Carrier Project.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Dr. Kana clarified that his remarks at the handover ceremony earlier this week had been misinterpreted.
He explained that while he acknowledged the possibility of reviving the National Carrier Project, he did not suggest a specific mandate to resurrect the failed Nigeria Air deal with Ethiopian Airlines.
Dr. Kana explained that he was referring to the broader vision of the current administration, which may consider a National Carrier Project if it is in the best interest of the country and follows the guidance of the President and the Minister of Aviation.
The clarification was made to ensure transparency and align the Ministry’s actions with national priorities. Dr. Kana emphasized the Ministry’s focus on improving Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and exploring new initiatives aimed at boosting economic growth and enhancing connectivity.
He also expressed his commitment to supporting the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, reaffirming his dedication to advancing the Ministry’s goals. The Ministry’s leadership continues to work closely with stakeholders to implement reforms that will raise Nigeria’s aviation sector to global standards.
“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,” Dr. Kana stated. “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 and under the guidance and directives of Mr. President and the Honourable Minister of Aviation.”
