Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has revealed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is investigating his predecessor, Hadi Sirika, over the Nigeria Air contract dispute.
He stated while appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday.
When asked about the Nigeria Air contract, Keyamo stated, “The EFCC is investigating that deal.” There is a criminal inquiry ongoing. “I have requested the report.”
Keyamo further stated that no local airline would be labeled as a national airline, but that “we will establish a proper national carrier.”
In August, Keyamo faulted Sirika’s pact and froze the entire arrangement to allow for a contract audit.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari established Nigeria Air a few days before the conclusion of his presidency.
The controversy surrounding the founding of Nigeria’s national airline, Nigeria Air, prompted veteran aviator Girma Wake to resign as Chairman of Ethiopian Airlines.
Capt. Dapo Olumide, then Interim Managing Director of Nigeria Air, stated that the aircraft used to launch the country’s national career was a genuine chartered flight from Ethiopian Airlines.
He further stated that the aircraft was returned to Ethiopian Airlines following the unveiling on the final day of the Buhari government in May.