The Federal Government of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of aviation has disclosed its plans to raise about $250 million from the private sector to float the proposed national carrier.
According to the federal government, the establishment of a national carrier would help the country gain optimal benefits from Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA), take full advantage of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and introduce competition that would lead to competitive air fares and also provide job opportunities for the citizens.
Reports have it that “the national carrier project will be private sector driven, with government holding not more than five per cent of the shares. The private sector consortium may comprise reputable international airlines, such as Qatar Airways, leasing companies, aircraft manufacturers (OEMS), financial and institutional investors.”
The federal ministry of Aviation added that “Government is considering providing financial guarantee and ensuring fiscal incentives to facilitate the success of the leasing company.
“The project is being structured as a terminal concession under Public, Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement between the government and the private sector, were the private investor will be required to upgrade, manage and operate the airport terminals over the concession period.”
Nigeria's minister of aviation, Hadi Sirika says there is no going back from floating a Nigerian own airline. He gave assurance that the national carrier must commence operations before the end of the present administration as the country remains one of the few African countries without a national carrier despite her population and traffic.
Share this:
Post a Comment