News Agency of Nigeria
Federal airports fully insured — FAAN MD
Aviation

Federal airports fully insured — FAAN MD

Airports
By Itohan Abara-Laserian
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Wednesday says
all federal airports managed by the authority are fully insured.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, gave the clarification while responding to claims that the airports were not insured.

Kuku also clarified that the insurance were up-to-date, with available records to back it up.

She said “de-rubberisation and runway hygiene has been done; infact, records are available to show.

“Other areas I will concur are habitation and community issues that have impacted the wildlife and bird strikes and we have been working closely with relevant stakeholders to control.

“The historical runway issues based on structural and engineering issues on some of the runways, along with those exceeding their lifespan are being corrected gradually with complete overhauls and maintenance.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that de-rubberisation is the process of removing rubber deposits on the runway to enhance landing grip of aircraft tyres.

In other words, it is aimed at better landing on the runways.(NAN)(www.nanews.ng)

Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Airline operators commend Tinubu for suspending 4% import levy
Aviation

Airline operators commend Tinubu for suspending 4% import levy

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has commended President Bola Tinubu for suspending the four per cent Free on Board (FoB) levy on imports.

AON also praised the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, for upholding the vision of the President.

The commendations are contained in a statement signed by the AON President, Dr Abdulmunaf Sarina, and Vice President, Dr Allen Onyema, on Tuesday in Lagos.

According to the body, the suspension demonstrates President Tinubu’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, protecting critical sectors, and promoting sustainable economic growth.

The operators noted that implementing the levy would have severely affected Nigerian airlines, increasing operating costs and further straining an industry already grappling with multiple challenges.

Specifically, the operators lauded Edun for exemplary leadership as a listening minister, showing patriotism and responsiveness by addressing stakeholders’ concerns.

They added that Edun’s decision reflected strong commitment to carrying out the President’s mandate with diligence, sensitivity, and fairness across economic sectors.

“This bold and thoughtful intervention will safeguard aviation, protect jobs, reduce inflationary pressures, and keep Nigeria competitive in the global business environment,” the statement read in part.

AON reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with government to strengthen aviation and contribute to Tinubu’s vision for economic growth and national development.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that on Monday, Sept. 15, the presidency suspended the four per cent FoB levy introduced earlier this year. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

United Nigeria seals Boeing 737-800 acquisition deal
Aviation

United Nigeria seals Boeing 737-800 acquisition deal

Operations

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has signed an aircraft sale and purchase agreement with Southwest Airlines for the delivery of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft to deepen domestic, regional and international operations.

The Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, announced  this in a statement on Sunday in Lagos.

Okonkwo said that the signing ceremony held at the corporate campus of Southwest Airlines in Dallas in the U.S. and was brokered by SkyWorks Holdings, LLC.

According to Okonkwo, the development marked a new phase in the airline’s  strategic plan and growth.

Okonkwo said that Boeing 737-800 was renowned for its advanced technology and design enhancements that improved performance, efficiency and passenger comfort.

He added that the acquisition would enable UNA to broaden operations, enhance efficiency and capacity, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitive edge in global aviation.

The chairman said that the agreement represented not only acquisition of aircraft but also a ground-breaking opportunity for collaboration with Southwest Airlines.

He said that the aircraft’s fuel efficiency due to its advanced aerodynamics and efficient engines would reduce operational costs and minimise environmental impact.

He added that its versatile range of approximately 2,935 nautical miles would allow United Nigeria Airlines to serve both short-haul and medium-haul routes effectively, optimising networks.

”After four years of solid and reliable operations by UNA, the Boeing 737-800 upgrade will pave the way for a more profitable expansion and growth.

“The new fleet will enable us to operate new flights into approved domestic, regional and international designations, lift more passengers and cargo at competitive fares, and provide efficient point-to-point travels.

“In addition, this acquisition will generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs and boost Nigeria’s economic development and growth in line with the policies of President Bola Tinubu.

” We must put on record the strong support we have received from Boeing throughout the entire process and the promise for continued support to ensure a smooth entry into service and operation of the fleet,” he said.

Okonkwo said that UNA was looking forward to continued collaboration with Southwest Airlines.

“Consequently, we have expressed interest in acquiring additional four Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, bringing the total number to 10, which will be inducted into the UNA’s fleet between the first quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027,” Okonkwo said.

He quoted Mr Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing’s Vice-President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, to have said during the signing ceremony that 737-800 aircraft would provide UNA with superior reliability, fuel efficiency and high-value returns.

Okonkwo also quoted the Chief Commercial Officer of SkyWorks Holdings, LLC,  Mr Anders Hebrandas as saying: “We are pleased to have partnered with Southwest Airlines as it continues to restructure and modernise its fleet.

“With United Nigeria Airlines, these top-of-the-line 737-800s have found a great home in the growing African aviation market, where they will be productive for many more years to come.” (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Air peace to begin Lagos–São Paulo flights in November-CEO
Aviation

Air peace to begin Lagos–São Paulo flights in November-CEO

By Muhyideen Jimoh
‎
‎Mr Allen Onyema, Air Peace CEO, has announced that the airline will commence direct flights from Lagos to São Paulo by late November.
‎
‎He made this known to journalists in Brasília on Tuesday, following a bilateral aviation deal signed during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Brazil.
‎
‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) was signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo and Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Filhos.
‎
‎The agreement was jointly supervised by Presidents Bola Tinubu and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
‎
“Yeah, we are looking forward to starting operations towards the last week of November to December this year,” Onyema declared.
‎
‎An excited Onyema described the deal as a major leap for Nigeria’s aviation sector and praised President Tinubu for making it possible.
‎
“Well, it is a milestone, President Bola Tinubu shuttles abroad, have started paying dividends for the good of our nation.”
‎
“Today, the Bilateral Air Services Agreement has been signed between both countries, Brazil and Nigeria.”
‎
‎“And I’m sure you heard when President Lula of Brazil said that Nigeria’s largest carrier, Airbus, has been designated to implement this BASA by running flight operations into and out of Brazil to Nigeria.”
‎
‎He emphasised that the Lagos–Brazil air corridor is long overdue and filled with untapped opportunities.
‎
“This is a milestone in the sense that the connectivity is something long overdue and our dear President has made it possible for this to come into fruition.”
‎
‎“It will open up both economies. The Brazilian economy is the largest in Latin America; the Nigerian economy is the largest in Africa. So, both countries are very rich in human and natural resources.”
‎
‎He said that the airline plans to start with three weekly flights and gradually scale up depending on demand and logistics.
‎
‎“We cannot start daily flights for now, but we will start with three weekly flights. That’s three flights a week for the time being. But as we go on, we develop the route and we can increase the frequency.”
‎
“We told the Brazilians that we want to do Lagos, Rio, São Paulo and back to Lagos like that. That’s taking people going to both cities and dropping people in both cities before coming back to Nigeria.”
‎
‎NAN reports that President Lula da Silva, at the signing ceremony on Monday, said that the BASA would significantly enhance diplomatic and economic relations.
‎
“Increasing the direct connections between Nigeria and Brazil is another essential step to strengthen the ties between our societies.”
‎
‎“We have approved the launch of a direct flight, to be operated by Nigeria’s largest airline company, Air Peace, between Lagos and São Paulo.”
‎
‎President Bola Tinubu also expressed optimism that the deal would deepen economic activities and cultural ties between Nigeria and Brazil.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu

Nigeria, Brazil sign air service deal for direct flights
Aviation

Nigeria, Brazil sign air service deal for direct flights

By Gabriel Agbeja

Nigeria has signed a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) with the Brazil, paving the way for direct flights between both countries.

This is contained in a statement by Mr Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in Abuja.

The agreement was signed in Brazil by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, and Brazil’s Minister of Transport, Mr Silvio Costa Filho.

The event was witnessed by President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil.

According to the statement, the BASA establishes a framework for direct air connectivity between Nigeria and Brazil, unlocking new opportunities for trade, tourism, investment, and people-to-people exchange.

The agreement is also expected to promote stronger economic integration, enhance cultural relations, and deepen diplomatic cooperation between the two countries.

“This agreement is a strategic milestone that underscores President Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s global partnerships and creating an enabling environment for commerce and mobility,” the statement said.

President Tinubu began a two-day state visit to Brazil on Monday, during which the BASA was signed.

He was warmly received in Brasília by President Lula da Silva, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral ties between the largest economies in Africa and South America.

In his remarks, President Lula lauded the agreement and expressed Brazil’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Nigeria in aviation, agriculture, infrastructure development, and other key areas.

During the visit, President Tinubu is also scheduled to meet with the President of the Brazilian Senate, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, and the President of the Supreme Federal Court.

The working visit will feature high-level engagements between Nigerian and Brazilian delegations across various sectors, highlighting both nations’ commitment to mutual growth and prosperity.

President Tinubu was accompanied by senior cabinet members, including Mr Olawale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and Amb, Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

Others in the delegation include Mr Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development; Mr Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security; as well as other top government officials.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh/Abiemwense Moru

Cally Air: C’River procures 2 additional aircraft
Aviation

Cally Air: C’River procures 2 additional aircraft

By Ehigimetor Igbaugba

The Cross River Government has procured two new aircraft to increase the fleet of Cally Air to four.

Vice President Kashim Shettima inaugurated the two new aircraft at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar.

Recall that two aircraft earlier procured for the take-off of the Cross River-owned Cally Air are currently being managed by ValueJet pending the issuance of operating license.

Speaking at the inauguration, Gov. Bassey Otu said that the state government planned to increase the fleet of Cally Air to seven.

“We already have two aircraft that are flying, we are adding another two today, and very soon, we shall add another three to make it seven,” he said.

Otu said that his administration was strongly building on three areas of development which were initiated by his predecessors.

He stated the his predecessors initiated projects in tourism, rural development and industrialisation.

“I came into government to meet three engines that were started by my predecessors. The first engine is tourism which was begun by Donald Duke.

“I also saw rural development which was anchored by Liyel Imoke, and I saw industrialisation which was started by Prof. Ben Ayade.

“The plans of these leaders were to move the state away from dependency on the centre.

“When I came into office, I saw the reason to integrate these three engines in order to create a robust economy that can take the state to another level.

“Today, we are building on the aviation sector which is very key to our tourism development target,” he said.

The governor stated that the Cross River Government was keying into President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as a way of promoting economic growth and citizens’ wellbeing. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Azubuike Okeh

FAAN vows to sanction passengers with disruptive, threatening behaviours
Aviation

FAAN vows to sanction passengers with disruptive, threatening behaviours

Behaviours

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

Following reported unruly behaviours at the nation’s airports in the past few days, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) says erring passengers will be sanctioned according to civil aviation laws.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN, Mrs Obiageli Orah, on Monday in Lagos.

According to Orah, the authority expressed concerns over repeated incidents of unruly behaviour, saying it was unacceptable and would not  be tolerated.

She advised passengers to familiarise themselves with passengers’ rights and responsibilities, as well as  airlines’ obligations as published by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and FAAN Bye Laws.

“The Authority will not hesitate to implement relevant sanctions as stipulated in ICAO Annex 17, Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations, especially Part 17, and FAAN Bye Laws against any form of disruptive or threatening behaviour within airport premises.

“FAAN is also reviewing its protocols around restraining and prosecuting passengers in line with the Airport Approved Security Programme and relevant laws.

“Regarding the recent incident involving a passenger on Ibom Air, while the situation was initially managed by security personnel at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Domestic Terminal 2 (MMA2), the FAAN Aviation Security  team has since intervened, taken the individual into custody and handed her over to the Nigerian Police Force for further investigation and prosecution,” she added.

According to Orah, FAAN urges all intending passengers to conduct themselves in a civil and orderly manner and adhere to all established airport and airline regulations.

She said that the safety, security and comfort of all airport users remained a top priority of the authority.

She warned that inappropriate behaviour would be sanctioned in line with relevant laws and protocols. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Airline operators place  indefinite ‘No Fly’ ban on Ibom Air passenger
Aviation

Airline operators place  indefinite ‘No Fly’ ban on Ibom Air passenger

Ban

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has placed a ‘No Fly’ ban on Comfort Emmanson, a passenger who allegedly became unruly aboard Ibom Air flight Q9 303, from Uyo to Lagos, on Sunday.

This is contained in a statement signed by the spokesperson for AON, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, on Monday in Lagos.

The AON condemned the alleged unruly behaviour including physical assault on a crew member.

It described it as the most severe case of unruly passenger behaviour witnessed in 2025.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Emmanson allegedly refused to comply with safety protocol  on use of mobile phone during landing at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two.

She allegedly became violent when approached by flight crew members  and other airport personnel before she was handed to airport security operatives.

AON said: “We have reviewed the detailed statement issued by Ibom Air regarding the incident, and we commend the airline for its swift and professional handling of this unfortunate event and fully endorse the actions taken.

“The incident,  from the initial refusal by the passenger to comply with safety instructions regarding mobile phone usage which led to brutal physical assault on Ibom Air crew members and the attempted use of a fire extinguisher as a weapon, constitutes one of the most severe case of unruly passenger behaviour witnessed this year.

“This was not just disruptive; it was a sustained, violent attack that placed the lives of crew, passengers and the integrity of the aircraft itself at risk.”

It said that such an incident had become one too many.

“This behaviour is unacceptable; therefore, the AON has placed Ms Emmanson on its ‘No Fly’ list indefinitely,” it said.

According to the association, Emmanson is banned from flying with any aircraft belonging to any member of AON locally  and internationally.

“The AON urgently calls on FAAN to immediately review and tighten security procedures at all airports across the country.

“The AON stands united with Ibom Air and all our members in maintaining a zero-tolerance policy toward unruly passengers.”

It warned that anyone  exhibiting such a behaviour would suffer a similar consequence.

“While we recognise the rights of passengers to express their grievances, such actions must follow due process.

“We are committed to protecting our employees, passengers and equipment,  as well as maintaining the highest safety standards,” it said. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Onyema, MMA2, others push for transit infrastructure, aviation data to boost Investment
Aviation

Onyema, MMA2, others push for transit infrastructure, aviation data to boost Investment

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

Experts in Nigeria’s aviation sector on Thursday made key recommendations to address persistent challenges in airport transit infrastructure, financing, insurance, and aviation data, among others.

They spoke during a panel session at the 29th League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) Conference 2025, held in Ikeja, Lagos.

Chairman of Air Peace Ltd., Dr Allen Onyema, in his remarks, said Nigeria continued to face unfair international stigmatisation in the aviation space.

According to him, the insurance premium paid by a Nigerian airline is often equivalent to what five airlines pay in other parts of the world.

He also noted that the lack of proper transit facilities and infrastructure at the Lagos airport had significantly impacted airline revenues.

Onyema identified high interest rates—nearly 30 per cent—as a major hurdle in aviation financing, in contrast to single-digit rates in many other countries.

He further stressed that global risk perceptions about Nigeria had led to disproportionately high insurance premiums for local airlines.

He said: “We need to do self-introspection and show financial discipline and integrity and imbibe financial integrity.

“Foreign exchange is stable now and it is now accessible; airlines can now plan; we are operating in a disadvantage environment.

“Government should create a window for the local airline to thrive,” he said.

Onyema recalled the sacrifices made by his airline to secure the London route despite numerous setbacks, stressing that Nigerian airlines deserve to be celebrated.

He, however, noted that forming a total alliance among local airlines would be challenging due to various risk factors.

The Chief Operating Officer of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Ltd., Mr Remi Jibodu, spoke on the critical link between airport investment and reliable aviation data.

According to him, establishing a central aviation data bank and harmonising data across the sector are essential for effective planning and attracting investment.

“If you want to build an airport or invest in one, and you’re looking for data to assess profitability, but the data available is inconsistent, it becomes a major setback,” he said.

Jibodu stressed the need for a comprehensive and accessible data plan that would support proper planning, accurate projections, and investor confidence.

He further noted that with the improved dry lease window now available to Nigerian airlines, this is the right time for airports to begin considering apron expansion and other critical infrastructure upgrades.

The Chief Executive Officer of Balujane Konsult, Mr Chris Aligbe, advised Nigerian airlines to spread their risks and form alliances—similar to their foreign counterparts—in order to operate more efficiently.

Aligbe noted that no foreign airline would establish a hub in Nigeria, stressing that only Nigerian carriers could and take on that responsibility.

He added that the country had the capacity to support at least three strong airlines that could form a formidable national aviation presence.

The Chief Executive Officer of CITA Aviation Fuelling Company, Dr Thomas Ogungbangbe, also decried the interest rate on financing, stating that no airline would survive under such conditions.

Ogungbangbe, therefore, suggested that the Federal Government could get a percentage of a Nigerian carrier like Air Peace and make it a national carrier.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference was attended by stakeholders from all segments of the aviation industry.

Participants also explored green financing as a viable means of strengthening the financial capacity of airlines.

A compendium detailing the history of aviation in Nigeria, compiled by the association, was also launched at the event. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Keyamo directs NCAA to place KWAM 1 on no-fly list
Aviation

Keyamo directs NCAA to place KWAM 1 on no-fly list

By Gabriel Agbeja

Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has directed the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to place Fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde, on no-fly list.

In his official X handle @fkeyamo on Thursday, Keyamo also ordered the NCAA to immediately notify both domestic and International airlines of the directive.

According to him, any operator who flouts the directive risks withdrawal of operating licence.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the directive came following a safety breach at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja terminal.

NAN further reports that the incident, which involved Ayinde popularly known as KWAM 1 and two pilots of ValueJet Airlines, led to the suspension of the licences of the pilots.

The pilots had been identified as Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First officer Ivan Oloba.

The minister condemned the behaviour of Ayinde and the pilots during the incident.

Keyamo said that his preliminary impression of the incident was a case of temporary loss of sanity and control on both sides, adding that this could have led to serious fatalities.

“I have received reports from all the relevant aviation agencies regarding the altercation between the staff and crew of ValueJet and Kwam 1 at Abuja airport on Tuesday, August 7, 2025 with video footage of the incident.

“Contrary to what the agents of KWAM 1 have said, he constantly moved his position on the tarmac to actually block the aircraft from taxiing to take position on the runway for take-off.

“This is totally unacceptable behaviour.

“The issue of whether he was carrying water or alcohol is not even an issue at this point.

“It is the physical blockage of the aircraft from taxiing that is the reprehensible conduct here which is akin to a hostage situation.

“The actual video footage showing this recalcitrant behaviour is hereby attached, ” he said.

He added that no amount of provocation ought to make the captain and co-pilot of an aircraft to begin to taxi without security personnel having safely moved an unruly passenger away from the front of an aircraft.

According to the minister, both sides breached standard safety protocols as required by the International Civil Aviation Organisation.(NAN)

Edited by Mufutau Ojo

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