The Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, has assured the public that Nigeria Air, the national carrier, will take to the skies before the current administration’s tenure comes to an end.
Speaking to State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council meeting, which was chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Minister Sirika expressed confidence in the airline’s progress.
“We are on track with Nigeria Air, and with the grace of God, it will be operational before President Muhammadu Buhari concludes his term,” the minister stated.
He further highlighted a significant development in the aviation industry—the approval of the Aviation Leasing Company by the Federal Executive Council. This establishment will enable civil aviation operators to access equipment at affordable rates within Nigeria.
“The roadmap for the aviation sector is gradually nearing completion. The Aviation Leasing Company will play a vital role in achieving this goal,” Minister Sirika emphasized.
During the meeting, the council also approved a contract worth ₦3.5 billion for the procurement and installation of photometric and taxiway lights at Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt airports. This investment aims to enhance safety and efficiency at these critical aviation hubs.
“The contract will cover the installation of taxiway lights, photometric patterns, and other necessary equipment across the country. It is part of our commitment to improving airport infrastructure,” the minister explained.
In another significant announcement, the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, revealed that the council approved the establishment of 37 new private universities nationwide.
“With the licensing of these 37 private universities, the current administration has surpassed previous administrations in terms of university establishment,” Minister Adamu affirmed.
Since 2015, a total of 72 universities have been established, including 14 by the Federal Government, 21 by state governments, and now 37 private universities.
The approval of Nigeria Air’s imminent operations and the establishment of new private universities demonstrate the government’s commitment to the development and advancement of key sectors in the country.
This latest development in Nigeria’s aviation industry and education sector is set to have a profound impact on the nation’s progress and growth. The imminent launch of Nigeria Air, the long-awaited national carrier, will not only boost the country’s transportation infrastructure but also contribute to its economic development.
The establishment of the Aviation Leasing Company will provide operators in the civil aviation industry with affordable access to state-of-the-art equipment within the country. This move aligns with the government’s vision of creating a robust aviation sector that promotes efficiency, safety, and sustainable growth.
The approval of the contract for photometric and taxiway lights at major airports, including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing aviation infrastructure. By improving the lighting systems, these airports will ensure safer operations and better navigation for both domestic and international flights, ultimately enhancing the passenger experience.
Switching gears to the education sector, the authorization of 37 new private universities represents a significant milestone. This demonstrates the government’s dedication to expanding access to higher education and promoting academic excellence across the country. With a total of 72 universities established since 2015, Nigeria is making remarkable strides in creating a conducive environment for learning and research.
These developments come at a crucial time as Nigeria strives to position itself as a regional and global hub for commerce, innovation, and education. By strengthening the aviation industry and expanding the higher education landscape, the government is paving the way for socio-economic advancement, attracting foreign investments, and fostering human capital development.
As the clock ticks toward May 29, Nigerians eagerly anticipate the inaugural flight of Nigeria Air. The successful launch of the national carrier will symbolize a significant achievement and a testament to the government’s commitment to transformative change. Simultaneously, the establishment of new private universities reinforces the country’s dedication to nurturing a knowledge-based society and empowering its youth for a prosperous future.
With these milestones, Nigeria is poised to make considerable strides in both its aviation sector and the education landscape. As the nation embraces new horizons, the stage is set for Nigeria to take its rightful place on the global stage, attracting opportunities, fostering economic growth, and empowering its citizens for a brighter tomorrow.