Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has revealed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is conducting an investigation into the controversial ‘Nigeria Air’ project deal, which was finalized during the tenure of former Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika.
Keyamo made this disclosure during an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’ program on Wednesday night, stating, “The EFCC is investigating that deal. There is a criminal investigation going on. I have called for the report.”
The ‘Nigeria Air’ project, touted as the country’s national carrier, has been steeped in controversy since its inception.
Capt. Dapo Olumide, the then interim managing director of Nigeria Air, clarified that the aircraft unveiled as the national carrier was a chartered flight from Ethiopian Airlines.
Olumide explained that the aircraft was returned to Ethiopian Airlines following the unveiling ceremony on the last day of the Buhari administration in May 2023.
Keyamo reiterated that no local airline would be designated as a national airline, adding that “we will establish a proper national carrier.”
Upon assuming office as minister, Keyamo promptly suspended the ‘Nigeria Air’ project, which was hurriedly unveiled in the final days of the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
