Minister of State, Aviation, Sen Hadi Sirika has unveiled the name and logo of Nigeria’s national carrier. Named Nigeria Air, the unveiling was done at the Farnborough AirShow in UK today.
According to the Minister, the Nigerian Government will not own more than 5% (maximum) of the new National Carrier. Government will not be involved in running it or deciding who runs it. He said, “We want to use this new private-sector-led airline to make a statement that, ‘Yes, Nigeria can do it!’ and we also want to promote our cultures and traditions. It will also create economic opportunities and jobs”.
Sen. Hadi Sirika also identified that the airline will fly about 81 routes (domestic, regional and international) for now, out of more than a thousand considered.
The Farnborough AirShow which is the meeting place for aircraft manufacturers, engine manufacturers, aircraft leasing companies, aviation consultants, and marketers, is expected to provide the avenue to attract prospective investors into the Nigerian aviation environment.
The Minister of Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika had earlier met with representatives of Airbus, Boeing and Standard Chartered Bank before the unveiling of the name and logo of the national carrier.