In a much-awaited announcement, Ethiopian Airlines declared that Nigerian Air, the long-debated national carrier, is all set to commence flight operations in October.
This comes after years of speculation and uncertainty surrounding the carrier’s fate, which has been marred by controversies and political drama since its first unveiling in 2018 during the prestigious Farnborough International Airshow in London.
In May 2023, Nigeria’s former Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika, took the nation by surprise when he launched the airline just 48 hours before the end of his administration. The abrupt move raised eyebrows and sparked a significant uproar nationwide, with questions swirling around the project’s viability and intentions.
The ownership structure of Nigerian Air has also been a subject of intense scrutiny. According to the breakdown, Ethiopian Airlines will hold a substantial 49% stake, while the Nigerian federal government will have a modest 5%. The remaining 46% will be owned by Nigerian private investors, including prominent entities such as SAHCO and MRS, along with other institutional investors.Speaking to Bloomberg TV, the Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, Mesfin Tasew, shed light on the airline’s operational plan.
Nigerian Air will initially begin its journey with two wide-bodied planes and six narrow-bodied aircraft. Tasew expressed enthusiasm for the carrier’s prospects, stating, “We are eager to see the airline start flying and connecting the local market to the international market.”Elaborating on the management model, Tasew confirmed that Ethiopian Airlines would oversee the operation.
This management contract was seen as a proven and successful approach, aiming to provide Nigeria with a well-functioning flag carrier. As a part of the arrangement, Ethiopian Airlines will work in close partnership with the Nigerian government, holding a 49% stake in the airline, while the government will hold 5%, and the remaining shares will be owned by other institutional investors.
The Nigerian government’s decision to partner with Ethiopian Airlines has been met with mixed reactions. Some view it as a pragmatic and strategic move, considering Ethiopian Airlines’ reputation as one of Africa’s leading and profitable carriers. With decades of experience and expertise in the aviation industry, Ethiopian Airlines’ involvement is expected to bring operational efficiency and industry best practices to Nigerian Air.
On the other hand, skeptics have raised concerns about potential overreliance on the foreign airline and the potential implications it may have on Nigeria’s autonomy and decision-making in the aviation sector. Nonetheless, supporters of the partnership emphasize that it is a pragmatic step towards kickstarting Nigerian Air’s operations and ensuring its long-term viability.
Nigeria Air’s initial route plan is ambitious, aiming to cover 15 domestic routes, connecting various cities within the country. Once firmly established in the domestic market, the airline has plans to expand its operations to neighboring West African cities and international destinations, including prominent hubs like London, New York, and Shanghai.
Such aspirations align with the objective of having a flag carrier that can represent Nigeria’s aviation interests on the global stage.The importance of a national carrier for Nigeria cannot be understated. A successful and robust airline can significantly contribute to the country’s economy, fostering tourism, trade, and business connectivity.
With a population of over 200 million and a growing middle class, Nigeria presents immense potential for aviation growth and development.As the October deadline approaches, the nation holds its breath, eagerly anticipating the inaugural flight of Nigerian Air.
The success of the venture will not only rest on Ethiopian Airlines’ managerial prowess but also on the cooperation and support it receives from the Nigerian government and private investors.
In conclusion, Nigerian Air’s journey has been tumultuous, filled with highs and lows, controversies, and hopes. The partnership with Ethiopian Airlines brings both optimism and skepticism, but only time will reveal the true outcome.
The airline’s ability to navigate challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and win the hearts of travelers will determine whether it becomes a symbol of national pride and prosperity or a footnote in Nigeria’s aviation history.
