Nigeria Air, the country’s long-debated national carrier, is set to take flight as early as October 2023, marking a new chapter in the airline’s tumultuous history. The venture, established in partnership with Ethiopian Airlines Group and Nigerian institutional investors, aims to connect the West African nation to both regional and international destinations.
Ethiopian Airlines’ Chief Executive Officer, Mesfin Tasew, confirmed the airline’s imminent launch during an interview with Bloomberg TV. According to the CEO, Nigeria Air will initiate operations with a fleet comprising two wide-bodied planes and six narrow-bodied aircraft. “We are eager to see the airline start flying and connecting the local market to the international market,” Tasew stated.
The unveiling of Nigeria Air originally occurred at the Farnborough International Airshow in London back in 2018. However, the official inauguration took place much later in May 2023, orchestrated by Nigeria’s then-Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika. The launch, which involved a single aircraft, was conducted just two days before the end of Sirika’s term, leading to considerable nationwide discontent.
The airline’s ownership structure reflects a diverse partnership. Ethiopian Airlines holds a significant 49% stake, while the Federal Government of Nigeria and Nigerian private investors, including SAHCO, MRS, and other institutional investors, possess five percent and 46% stakes, respectively.
Since its inception, Nigeria Air has been embroiled in controversy, facing legal battles and regulatory challenges. The uncertainty surrounding the airline has made its progress a subject of much public interest and scrutiny. Nonetheless, with the support of Ethiopian Airlines and a collaborative ownership structure, the airline now looks forward to overcoming past obstacles and establishing itself as a key player in Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
