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NAMA calls for urgent end to 50% revenue cut

By Fidelia Okafor

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency has appealed to the Federal Government to suspend the 50 per cent revenue deduction currently being made at source from its internally generated revenue, a practice capable of hindering smooth operations of the agency and hampering the safety of air passengers.

Before now, NAMA has been calling for the suspension of the mandatory 50 per cent deduction from its revenue, emphasising the need for the placement and modernisation of ageing navigational equipment currently in use across the country.

Speaking at the 54th Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association held in Abuja on Tuesday, the Managing Director of NAMA, Ahmed Farouk, mentioned funding as the agency’s most pressing challenge, insisting that the deductions significantly constrain its ability to maintain and upgrade critical infrastructure required for safe and efficient airspace management and operations

Farouk stated, “The most significant constraint we face today is funding. This challenge is significantly exacerbated by the deductions-at-source of between 30 per cent and 50 per cent from NAMA’s internally generated revenue. While we understand the fiscal realities facing the government, these deductions are hindering our ability to execute vital projects.”

The NAMA boss added that the nature of its operations, particularly the need for continuous facility modernisation and statutory maintenance, demands consistent investment.

He argued that withholding half of its earnings leaves little room for reinvestment into the systems that uphold airspace safety and efficiency.

It further appealed to the government to consider granting a waiver on the deductions, describing such a move as a game-changer for the aviation sector.

According to the agency, should the waiver be granted to the agency, NAMA will rechannel the resources into critical infrastructure, modern technology, and workforce development.

He said, “The Honourable Minister, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, while we celebrate these achievements, we must also be candid about our challenges. Our most significant constraint remains funding. The scale of facility modernisation and the relentless cycle of statutory maintenance required to uphold the highest degree of safety and operational efficiency are capital-intensive.

“This challenge is significantly exacerbated by the deductions-at-source of between 30% and 50% made directly from NAMA’s internally generated revenue. While we understand the fiscal pressures on the government, these deductions severely limit our capacity to undertake the comprehensive projects our airspace demands.

“Therefore, from this esteemed platform, I wish to make a heartfelt appeal to the Federal Government to graciously consider a waiver of these deductions. Such a gesture would be a game-changer for Nigerian aviation safety. It would allow NAMA to reinvest every Naira of its earnings into critical infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and the continued development of our human capital, the very ‘Human Edge’ we are here to discuss.”

NAMA also expressed its commitment to supporting the welfare and professional growth of its personnel, especially Air Traffic Controllers, whom it described as the custodians of Nigerian skies.

The agency pledged to remain a custodian of their growth and well-being and expressed hope that ongoing stakeholder deliberations would result in productive outcomes and guide future collaborations.

Qatar Airways Andd Kenya Airways Expand Partnership With Codeshare Flights To 19 Destinations

Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways announce the launch of codeshare flights to 19 destinations, with more set to be added in the near future. Kenya Airways customers can book codeshare flights between Nairobi and Doha, as well as to 10 destinations connecting through the award-winning Hamad International Airport.

 

Similarly, Qatar Airways customers now have access to eight destinations in Kenya Airways’ network, connecting through three daily flights between Doha and Nairobi. Passengers will be able to travel on these codeshare flights from 26 October 2025. Flights will be available for sale starting tomorrow, 21 October.

 

Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Thierry Antinori, said: “We are pleased with the significant progress made in just a few months since the partnership initiated with Kenya Airways, and this enhancement is a testament of the collaborative efforts which further strengthens our presence in Kenya and the African continent. The recent addition of Qatar Airways’ third daily flight to Nairobi also serves as another cornerstone of this partnership that is driven by strong demand from passengers seeking reliable and seamless connectivity.”

 

Kenya Airways Chief Commercial and Customer Officer, Julius Thairu, said: “We are excited to embark on this new chapter of our partnership with Qatar Airways. This partnership will significantly enhance connectivity especially across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, expanding our flight offerings, and opening up a world of new destinations for our customers to explore. Together with Qatar Airways, we are dedicated to providing our customers with easy access to a variety of destinations, paired with better connectivity and a seamless travel experience.”

 

Today’s announcement enables Qatar Airways to continue expanding its footprint within the African continent, providing passengers from more than 170 destinations across the globe with easier access to key leisure and business destinations served by Kenya Airways, including Lilongwe, Livingstone, Juba, Nampula, Ndola, and Victoria Falls.

 

Similarly, Kenya Airways passengers will now be able to connect to multiple destinations in 10 countries across Asia and the Middle East through Hamad International Airport, named the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ for 11 consecutive years. These destinations include Bahrain, Colombo, Islamabad, Karachi, Malé, Tokyo Narita, and Singapore.
Additionally, Qatar Airways Privilege Club members will earn Avios on the codeshare flights operated by Kenya Airways.

 

 

The two airlines will continue to collaborate on codeshares, airport operations, lounges, sustainability and procurement. Other future phases and areas of collaboration will include network development, cargo, aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul.

Kenya Airways codeshares on Qatar Airways routes

Bahrain, Colombo (Sri Lanka), Doha (Qatar), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Islamabad and Karachi (Pakistan), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Malé (Maldives), Muscat (Oman), Singapore, and Tokyo Narita (Japan).

Qatar Airways codeshares on Kenya Airways routes

Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire), Accra (Ghana), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Lilongwe (Malawi), Livingstone (Zambia), Juba (South Sudan), Nampula (Mozambique), and Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe).

*Some flights are subject to government approvals.

 

 

About Kenya Airways

Kenya Airways (KQ), The Pride of Africa, is a leading African carrier on a mission to propel Africa’s prosperity by connecting its people, cultures, and markets. We fly to 45 destinations worldwide, 37 of which are in Africa, connecting over 5 million passengers and over 70,000 Tons of cargo annually through our Hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

As the sole African carrier in the SkyTeam Alliance, we open up a world of possibilities for our customers, connecting them to over 1,060 destinations in 173 countries. We take pride in offering a delightful flying experience with a caring African touch. Our exceptional African hospitality has consistently earned us global recognition including the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards where we were honoured with the Best Airline Staff and Best Airline Cabin Crew in Africa in 2024.

 

 

About Qatar Airways

A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways won the ‘World’s Best Airline’ for an unprecedented ninth time at the 2025 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax. Qatar Airways was previously named the World’s Best Airline in 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2024.

The airline continues to be synonymous with excellence, and has yet again received recognition for ‘World’s Best Business Class’, and ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge’. As the leading connector in the region, Qatar Airways has also been lauded with the ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’ title for the 13 time.

Qatar Airways currently flies to over 170 destinations worldwide, connecting through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport, the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ for 11 consecutive years, as well as ‘World’s Best Airport Shopping’ for the third year in a row, as voted by Skytrax. Hamad International Airport has previously been named the ‘World’s Best Airport’ by Skytrax in 2021, 2022, and 2024.

Qatar Airways was the first Airline in the Middle East to be certified to the highest level of IATA’s Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme, based on recognised environmental management system principles (such as ISO 14001). As an inaugural signatory to the Buckingham Palace Declaration in March 2016, Qatar Airways became the first airline globally to be certified to the industry standard for the prevention of illegal wildlife trafficking in aviation.

Air Tanzania Partners With SAHCO To Handle Its  Ground Services For The First Time In Nigeria

By Fidelia  Okafor 
Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc, has secured the contract to provide ground handling operations to Air Tanzania at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nigeria.
SAHCO is providing comprehensive ground handling services, which includes Passenger Handling, Baggage Handling, Ramp Handling, Cargo Handling & Warehousing and other aviation related services to Air Tanzania that would be flying from its hub at Julius Nyerere International Airport, Dar es Salaam, three times a week to Lagos.
Air Tanzania, which is the national flag carrier of the United Republic of Tanzania was established in 2002, with the aims to enhance Tanzania’s economic development and global connectivity.
Speaking on the development, the Managing Director/CEO of SAHCO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, stated; “We are thrilled to welcome Air Tanzania to Lagos and are honored they have chosen SAHCO Plc as their trusted ground handling partner. This contract is a testament to our team’s expertise, state-of-the-art equipment, and unwavering dedication to operational excellence and safety. We are fully prepared to support Air Tanzania’s new service, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for their passengers and cargo.”
SAHCO is the only Ground Handling Company in Nigeria that is in all the commercially operated Airports in the country. This feat and quality of service has enabled SAHCO to attract and retain confidence in both existing and new airlines due to the seamless, safe and speedy service delivery which SAHCO is known for.
In recent times, many foreign airlines have moved their aviation ground handling operations to SAHCO to enjoy being handled by dependable and devoted workforce who are well trained and whose integrity is unmatched, undoubtable, delivering their activities in line with global best practices.
Also, SAHCO has invested on modern aviation ground support equipment (GSE) which operates on alternative power sources and are rugged to enable effective maneuvering in the Nigerian terrain. These GSE are also equipped with the technology to guarantee zero carbon emission to ensure the commitment of SAHCO to protecting the environment.
In recognition of its high standards, SAHCO recently secured an additional ground handling contract with Ethiopian Airlines, the national flag carrier of Ethiopia. Ethiopian Airlines operates daily flights from Addis Ababa International Airport to Lagos, Nigeria, and now benefits from SAHCO’s world-class handling services.
Since aviation is all about safety, SAHCO has ensured that the organization is RA3 certified, ISAGO certified, ISO  9001 and ISO 27001 certified. It is worthy to note that SAHCO is also the recipient of numerous awards both locally and internationally due to its quality service delivery in aviation ground handling operations in Nigeria.
Keyamo Inaugurates Enugu Air,  Commends Mbah

Keyamo Inaugurates Enugu Air, Says Mbah Incredible, Will be Hard to Defeat  | PDP Governors ForumLarryBravo Nwaiwu
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, on Monday, inaugurated Enugu Air, a state-owned commercial airline established by the Governor Peter Mbah Administration with three Embraer airplanes for a start.
Recalling Mbah’s persistence and energy in bringing Enugu Air to reality, Keyamo described him as “an incredible, performing governor”, noting that it would be difficult to defeat him in 2027, given the level of work he had done in just two years.
This was even as governor Mbah described the feat as a triumph of vision, and the beginning of Enugu’s journey to becoming a major aviation hub.
“Governor Peter Mbah was the first governor that visited me immediately I was sworn in as a Minister. I said this man will not even allow me to settle down first. The governor was relentless, persistent and pushing to the extent that I asked, this private sector experience you are bringing into Enugu, do you want Enugu to explode?
“It was incredible. He was not even waiting for us to come to him. Dr. Peter Mbah was coming to Abuja almost every week to press the button to make sure that a couple of things happen and this (launch of Enugu Air) is just one of them,” he said.
He commended the state’s choice of XEJet as partner and operator of Enugu Air, describing XEJet as a highly competent and 100 per cent Nigeria-owned key player in the nation’s and Africa’s aviation industry.
“XEJet is not only supporting Enugu Air, it is running the Sierra Leonean National Airline. That is what the Renewed Hope Agenda is all about,” he stated.
The minister dismissed the misgivings over federal government’s plan to concession the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, AIIA, and lauded Mbah’s strenuous effort towards to ensure the imminent completion and operationalisation of the airport.
“He also came back to us and said, ‘look, I want to attract private sector investment into Enugu Airport. I will not wait for beaurocracy to run this airport for the good of Enugu people. The pace of development is too slow.’
“I said, ‘Your Excellency, just finish the Enugu Air first.’ He said no. As I speak to you, in the next few months, and few years, Enugu Airport will not be what you see here today. Private sector is coming into Enugu Airport, driven by the governor.
“We are running the airport at a loss because we don’t have the drive of the private sector. But Enugu will be a bigger international hub now and we are going to approve regional operations from here to African States. Bring your letter tomorrow we will approve it,” Keyamo stated.
He said that despite being of a different political party from the governor, he could not hide the fact that the governor had performed and would be difficult to defeat in any election.
“Dr. Peter Mbah, you are a PDP, but we are afraid of you. The way you are going, we don’t know what will happen. We don’t know how to draw a scheme to defeat you, but we will be planning.
“It is an incredible vision you have here. Mr. President has said it himself. I am only reflecting what the president said.
“Beyond party lines, we should not be afraid to say it. You have a progressive spirit and you have done well for Enugu State. You are one of the best performing governors,” he said.
He urged the governor and the CEO of Enugu Air to ensure that the airline was run professionally like a business, while also urging the people of Enugu State to patronise their own aircraft.
Speaking, Governor Mbah described the launch of Enugu Air as “a triumph of vision, a testament to Nigeria’s immense aviation potential and economic renaissance.”
He explained that Enugu Air would expand beyong the present routes to various other Nigerian cities and beyond.
“We are starting off with three Embraer aircraft – efficient elegant birds made for our terrain. Our routes begin with a powerful golden triangle: Enugu to Abuja to Lagos. From there, we stretch our wings to Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, Kano, and across various other cities.
“But we are not stopping there. In the next phase, we will fly beyond Nigeria, into other African countries, China, Europe, UK, US, and other global business hubs,” Mbah said.
He said that Enugu Air was established to create jobs and career paths for the young people; a faster and more reliable access to markets, clients, and capita by business people; a simpler and more dignified access to home for the diaspora, and a ready gateway to collaboration and opportunity for investors interested in Enugu.
He thanked President Bola Tinubu, Keyamo, and various agencies under the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Fidelity Bank, among others, for their great support towards the realisation of the state carrier.
Earlier, Enugu State Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Obi Ozor, assured that Enugu Air would live up to its dream.
The Managing Director of Fidelity Bank PLC, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, and the CEO of XEJet, Engr. Ayuba Emmanuel, described Mbah as a visionary and courageous leader and assured the state of their continued partnership to actualise his dreams for the state.
The event witnessed a large turnout of Enugu people and was graced by many dignitaries, including the Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu.
Enugu Air Launches On July 7

Enugu Air, an Enugu-state owned commercial airline is set to launch on  Monday, July 7, 2025, a statement released by the state government on  Thursday has revealed.LarryBravo Nwaiwu
Enugu Air, an Enugu-state owned commercial airline is set to launch on Monday, July 7, 2025, a statement released by the state government on Thursday has revealed.
According to the state government, Enugu Air is part of Governor Peter Mbah Administration’s integrated blueprint for a modern, multimodal transport ecosystem and vision to make Enugu a major aviation hub.
In the statement signed by the Commisssioner for Transportation, Dr. Obi Ozor, the government said that the launch of Enugu Air would take place at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, as the Special Guest of Honour, among other dignitaries.
“Enugu Air will take off with an initial fleet of three Embraer aircraft, E170 and E190 series, selected for their efficiency, comfort, and adaptability to the regional market.
“The inaugural routes will establish a ‘golden triangle’ with Enugu at its core, connecting Abuja and Lagos and subsequently extending to Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, Kano, and other strategic cities across Nigeria and beyond.
“With a strong foundation of innovation and sustainability, we are ready to redefine air travel, instill pride, and elevate Enugu’s prominence on the national and global stage.
“Let the countdown begin—Enugu Air is ready for takeoff,” Ozor said.
Staff Welfare, Training And Business Development Is The Heart Of My Administration – FAAN MD

By Fidelia Okafor
The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has called on aviation stakeholders to prioritise investment in project development to enhance bankability and attract investors. She emphasised the importance of conducting market studies, feasibility assessments, and developing strong business cases to ensure sustainable growth in the sector.
Mrs. Kuku made this appeal on Monday, 16 June 2025, during her opening address at the ongoing Biennial FAAN Joint Trade Unions Conference 2025, held at the Abdurahaman Danbazau Conference Centre (COCOS Hotel), Correctional Services, Bill Clinton Drive, Airport Road, Abuja.
Mrs Kuku emphasised the crucial role of cargo operations in the sector’s future, noting that investment requires clear returns supported by comprehensive data. She pointed out that while FAAN has established the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services, additional support and data-driven studies are necessary to secure investor confidence.
Speaking on staff welfare, Mrs Kuku reaffirmed FAAN’s commitment to improving working conditions, stating that the newly negotiated conditions of service—developed with union participation—are set for submission to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. She also highlighted ongoing efforts to reassess staff training and international travel budgets for more inclusive coverage.
Addressing concerns about medical facilities, Mrs Kuku acknowledged the need to improve on what is currently available. She revealed that FAAN is reviewing partnership opportunities to enhance healthcare access for employees. Additionally, she mentioned plans to procure operational vehicles for airports and renovate staff quarters to improve living conditions.
In discussing airport management, she stressed the importance of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to ensure efficiency and accountability among airport managers and department heads.
Mrs Kuku expressed gratitude to the aviation unions—NUATE, ATSSSAN, and ANAP—for their cooperation and urged delegates to use the conference to strategise effectively for the sector’s advancement.
“This conference serves as a pivotal platform to address our concerns. By championing just culture, which emphasises fairness and accountability in safety practices, and just transition, which supports equitable shifts toward sustainable aviation, stakeholders can collectively drive meaningful change,” she stated.
Reaffirming FAAN’s commitment to dialogue and staff welfare, Mrs Kuku assured the unions that management remains open to constructive engagement, honest dialogue, and practical solutions to workplace challenges.
“I urge you, dear union delegates, to utilise this conference to strategise with foresight, engage with purpose, and emerge with resolutions that reflect both the aspirations of your members and the realities of our shared environment. Let us work together to protect jobs, enhance conditions of service, and strengthen the sector, not through conflict, but through cooperation,” she concluded.
NAMA Conducts Aircraft Emergency Table Top Exercise In Lagos

By Fidelia Okafor

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) on Tuesday conducted an Aircraft Emergency Table Top Exercise to enlighten aviation stakeholders on how to manage aircraft emergencies and disasters.

The Exercise which took place at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Conferences center brought key stakeholders in emergency management and Search and Rescue Units drawn from all the aviation agencies.

Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Department of State Security (DSS), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Federal Fire Service (FFS), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos State Emergency Management (LASEMA), Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Lagos State Ambulance Services (LASANBUS), Nigerian Police Force (NPF), etc.

L-R : Representative of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority Authority (NCAA), Alhaji Safo Baba Jiya, Head of Search and Rescue Unit, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos Operations Office), Mrs. Ibitayo Adenike, Regional General Manager, South West, FAAN, Mr Olatokunbo Arewa, Search Mission Coordinator, MMIA, Igberaese David and an official of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Engr Jamin Olayinka Salami during the Aircraft Emergency Table Top Excercise conducted by NAMA on Tuesday at the MMIA, Lagos.

Declaring the exercise open, the Director of Air Traffic Services (ATS) at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) John Tayo urged all stakeholders who attended to take the exercise seriously.Tayo equally urged the media to take the exercise serious and report it widely, pointing out that other agencies had done similar exercise but was not adequately captured in the media space.

Emphasizing that Search and Rescue (SAR) is everybody’s business, he said, “This morning, we are going to combine two things. To get fruitful result, we want to separate stakeholders meeting and the aircraft emergency Exercise”.

The Director, who was represented by the General Manager, SAR, NAMA, Mr. Sunday Iwalaiye streamlined the Emergency Table Top Exercise into two sessions: “Search and Rescue Units and Responsibilities” and “Arrangement Into Groups of Search And Rescue Units According To Their Responsibilities” said

“We cannot start the exercise without knowing clearly the responsibilities of each agency. Any Search and Rescue involving an aircraft is aeronautical emergency”.

“This is a thing we should all support. Although, no one want emergencies to happen but it does happen. I want all stakeholders to take notes to what so as to know what to do when emergencies occur”, Arewa added.

Alhaji Safo Baba Jiya, a representative of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) also commended the coordinators.

Jiwa, who dwelt elaborately on the importance of safety said, “Safety is paramount for us at NCAA. We are here to learn. Let us be mindful on what we are doing here today”.

In his remark, Quality Assurance Manager (QAM) , MMIA, Onohwoakpo Chris said that, although, many stakeholders don’t want emergency situations but that, “”We gathered here to learn on what we don’t ever want to happen in aviation”.

Head of Search and Rescue Unit, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA, Lagos Operations Office), Mrs. Ibitayo Adenike equally commended the exercise.

Ibitayo said, “Last disaster in global aviation wasn’t expected. We have representatives of practically all airlines. I appreciate the efforts put in this exercise. Let us put our minds together to synergise and identify areas of shortcomings and make progress so that whenever we there is an emergency, we will do the right thing”.

To Engr Jamin Olayinka Salami of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), he was very pleased with the exercise as it is something that stakeholders need to be doing often.

Salami, however, insisted that, what most importantly is how do we prevent disasters. It will help us to prepare more for eventually.

Explaining the essence of the exercise, Search Mission Coordinator, MMIA, Igberaese David who coordinated the exercise said that NAMA have been they conducting joint operation with National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) NIMASA, they decided to come together for a better performance when incidence occurs.

Igberaese said, “The goal is rescuing the greatest number of people in the shortest possible time.

According to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), 24 hour watch must be provided in the Search and Rescue operations”.

“Search and Rescue is everybody is everybody business because when it occurs in remote areas, the farmers eventually become the first responders.”, Igberaese added.

High point of the event was the activation of Search and Rescue scenario which was terminated after some minutes of demonstrations before debriefing of the exercise.

Abbas Jega, Ex-AMCON ED, Testifies, Says Arik Never Cooperated With AMCON 

Abbas Jega, Ex-AMCON ED, Testifies, Says Arik Never Cooperated with AMCON |  Tech | Business | Economy

A former Executive Director at Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Mr Abbas Muhammed Jega, on Wednesday, June 4th, appeared at the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos, to testify in the ongoing case between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) vs the ex-AMCON MD/CEO, Ahmed Kuru, Kamilu Omokide, a former receiver manager of Arik Air Ltd; Captain Roy Ilegbodu, the airline’s CEO; Union Bank Ltd; and Super Bravo Ltd.

Jega appeared as the third prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of the former AMCON boss, Mr. Ahmed Kuru, and four others, who are standing trial over alleged financial misappropriation amounting to N76 bn and $31.5m. The matter is presided over by Justice Mojisola Dada.

Providing the court with the details of what he could recollect about the Arik Air/Union Bank business relationship that went bad, Jega recalled that following the directive of the Central Bank regarding the dumping of non-performing loans to AMCON, Union Bank had informed AMCON then that the CBN informed them to collapse the guarantee of Arik into loan because of the huge amount involved in the Union Bank had exceeded the single obligor limit allowable by the apex bank.

Jega whose directorate in AMCON was in charge of the transaction (as Executive Director, Credit) disclosed that it was in a certain meeting held in London that we ‘first knew that what Union Bank sold to us was not a loan but a guarantee given to some foreign lenders, that in the event Arik died or burnout, Union Bank will pay the instalments.’

He said, “When we came back to Nigeria… we now invited the Union Bank to explain why AMCON should pay for the guarantee. At the end of the deliberations, AMCON agreed with Union Bank that the money paid should be returned to AMCON, so that if Arik does not pay any instalment, AMCON will make the payment on behalf of Arik. We (AMCON) invited Arik to resolve the issue with Union Bank.

However, AMCON sources have confirmed that the arrangement disclosed by Jega never existed. AMCON, being a recovery agency of the federal government of Nigeria, was never in a position to take over the repayment of an obligor’s exposure to foreign lenders, particularly when it never had any concrete arrangement with the obligor for the same.

Jega also disclosed that the Chairman of Arik, Sir Johnson Arumemi-Ikhide, was avoiding a discussion with us (AMCON), probably because he believed he shouldn’t be talking to AMCON, because he didn’t have an NPL with Union Bank. But he didn’t realise that some of the measures put in place by the system were that if AMCON takes over your loan, you cannot borrow in the banking industry. This forced him to come to the table. We signed some agreements on how to restructure the loans.

He said that after the restructuring agreement, AMCON gave Arik even more money to help them sort out their working capital problems. As a result, AMCON created additional loan facilities for Arik, but Arik still failed to meet their repayment obligation to AMCON.

He added that, “At the time AMCON took over Union Bank that the guarantee was performing, but since AMCON took over Arik, it stopped performing because the nature of the facility had changed, and Arik was not amenable to that change. It was unable to source its working capital from the money market. This complicated both the relationship between Arik/AMCON and the ability of Arik to honour its obligations.

“We tried in AMCON to save the situation through a debt equity swap, but the burden in AMCON’s books cannot be sustained by the airline. We also proffered a solution where AMCON becomes a shareholder in Arik, and the legacy owners will lose some control. We took steps to implement this option, but Arik refused.

“The second option was to have management control in Arik. To appoint MD and CFO, so that AMCON can have both oversight and financial control. Initially, Arik agreed. But they dragged in the implementation. This was the stage at which the matter was when I left AMCON.”

Upon cross-examination, Jega confirmed that Kamilu Omokide and Capt Ilegbodu never played any role in the purchase of the loan from Union Bank, nor did they play any role in the so-called London meeting between Union Bank, AMCON and Arik’s foreign lenders.

Jega also confirmed during cross-examination that Arik’s inability to repay was a result of over-trading by Arik, that is, stretching beyond its capacity and leading to their inability to service existing and due debts. He confirmed Arik’s indebtedness to AMCON as at the time of his exit in 2015 was over N100bn, and the same remained unpaid.

He further disclosed that the Arik loans acquired by AMCON were not limited to Union Bank but also included Keystone Bank. But the Zenith Bank loan was purchased after his exit, leading to the level of exposure Arik had to AMCON.

The matter was adjourned to 30th June, 1st and 2nd July 2025 for the continuation of cross-examination of Abass Jega.

May 27: Air Peace Celebrates Children At Dual Events

As part of its ongoing commitment to social impact and child-centered advocacy, Air Peace Limited has  sponsored and attended the Parkland Amusement Center Children’s Fiesta and Raising Star’s This Ability 4.0 in celebration of Children’s Day 2025.

These dual engagements were centered on a shared goal: honouring children and creating inclusive spaces where every child’s voice is heard and valued.

At the Parkland Children’s Fiesta, children from various underprivileged schools gathered for a vibrant day filled with fun activities, games, and refreshments. The event, held at Parkland Amusement Park, Lagos, brought together children from diverse backgrounds in a celebration of unity and happiness.

Air Peace sponsored 40 children to attend the event, ensuring they experienced the joy and excitement of the day. Alongside prominent brands like Chocolate City, Mavin Records, Ryno Auto, and others, Air Peace stood out for its commitment to celebrating the voices and dreams of Nigerian children.

Simultaneously, Air Peace also lent its support to Raising Star’s This Ability 4.0, an annual advocacy event held at The Darlington Hall, Ilupeju, Lagos, and designed to spotlight and celebrate the abilities of children living with disabilities. With the powerful theme “Empowering Every Voice,” the event focused on inclusion, awareness, and empowerment.

This Ability 4.0 featured an art exhibition session showcasing the creativity of children with disabilities, a talent competition including fashion, music, and visual arts showcase, a dance competition involving inclusive schools, and seminars for parents, advocates, and tutors of children living with disabilities, as well as financial grants to support youth-led SMEs and young adults with disabilities.

SAHCO Wins British Airways Safety And Punctuality Awards 

SAHCO Wins BA Safety, Punctuality Awards for Q1 2025
Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC has once again demonstrated its leadership in aviation ground handling by winning the prestigious British Airways Safety and Punctuality Bronze Awards for both Lagos and Abuja stations for Q1 2025.
The awards recognize SAHCO’s exceptional performance in meeting British Airways’ punctuality targets and upholding the highest safety standards in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific region.
British Airways presented the awards in recognition of SAHCO’s consistent professionalism and seamless ground handling services during the first quarter of 2025. Both Lagos and Abuja stations achieved the airline’s Adjusted Departure Closure (aDC) target of 96% each month during the period — a reflection of SAHCO’s unwavering commitment to operational excellence.
“Safety and punctuality are pillars of the aviation industry,” said Hellen O’Connor, Regional General Manager for British Airways, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. “We congratulate SAHCO in Lagos and Abuja for their outstanding contributions in achieving our Q1 punctuality goals.”
Since the inception of the awards, SAHCO has been a consistent winner across all categories. In 2024 alone, the Lagos station received Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum awards, while Abuja earned the Bronze award — a testament to the company’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
In response, SAHCO’s Managing Director/CEO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, expressed appreciation to British Airways for the continued recognition. “We are delighted to receive this honour. SAHCO is committed to providing world-class ground handling services with the use of advanced, eco-friendly equipment. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team nationwide.”
Also, SAHCO PLC and its Assistant General Manager, Safety and Quality Assurance, Mrs. Christy Oseghale, were honoured with the Special Safety Merit Award at the 2025 Nigeria Safety & Security (NSAS) Awards and Lecture, organized by Safety & Security Watch (SSWatch) Magazine, to commemorate the ILO World Day for Safety and Health.
Mrs. Oseghale was specially recognized as a Safety Champion for her leadership in promoting a safety-first culture, contributing to national awareness, and helping to elevate industry benchmarks.
“I’m deeply honoured by this recognition,” she remarked. “At SAHCO, safety is not negotiable. We are committed to safeguarding lives, equipment, and operations through best-in-class safety standards.”
“SAHCO prioritizes safety in every aspect of its operations,” said Dr. Chinyere Amaechi, Managing Editor of SSWatch Magazine. “The company’s multiple certifications and gender-inclusive safety culture reflect its reputation as one of Nigeria’s most compliant aviation service providers.”
With these accolades, SAHCO PLC continues to cement its position as a leading provider of safe, reliable, and innovative ground handling services across Nigeria’s aviation landscape.