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‘It’s shadowy’ — airline operators fault Sirika’s move to float Nigeria Air days to handover

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Domestic aviation firms, under the aegis of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), have condemned plans by Hadi Sirika, minister of aviation, to deliver Nigeria Air, the proposed national carrier, before May 29, 2023.

The airlines, in a statement on Friday, signed by Obiora Okonkwo, spokesperson of AON, described the move as contemptuous and shadowy.

Two days ago, Sirika announced that an aircraft belonging to Nigeria Air would be delivered on Friday (today), insisting that the national carrier would be operational before his tenure ends.

Prior to this announcement, aviation stakeholders had raised concerns over the ownership stake of the proposed national carrier.

Last year, a federal high court in Lagos prohibited the federal government from selling the shares of Nigeria Air to Ethiopian Airlines — a judgment that ultimately halted the commencement of operations.

But the minister had consistently insisted that the national carrier would fly before the end of the current administration, adding that “nothing would stop it.”

Responding to Sirika’s recent comments on floating Nigeria Air in the statement, the airlines kicked against the plan, adding that such a move “was not in the best interest of the country”.

“All of these statements and actions are in flagrant disobedience of the orders of the federal high court of Nigeria which halted the said moves by the minister to float the said airline until the determination of the substantive suit brought by AON against it,” the statement reads.

“We make bold to respond because of the myriad of inquiries from concerned and patriotic Nigerians and industry stakeholders who have either called or sent messages over the minister’s comments.

“For the avoidance of doubt, AON welcomes the establishment of more airlines in Nigeria for we believe that the skies are big enough to accommodate all. However, AON is against any contraption that is shadowy and not in the best interest of the country.

“We need the outgoing minister to come forward, defend, and counter the very damning submissions in our suit.”

‘SIRIKA IS NOT ABOVE THE LAW’

The airlines also frowned on the desperate move of the minister to operate the airline despite a court order, uncompleted certification, and a short time before his tenure elapses.

“It is very disturbing that a minister is desperately hoodwinking the entire nation into accepting a massively flawed process just 72 hours to the end of his 7-year tenure in office as minister of aviation even as the courts have halted him,” AON added.

“The aviation minister is aware of the different court orders against him and Nigeria Air. He should be aware that he is courting a charge of contempt of court as he is not above the law and can not freely disregard the courts.

“AON is also aware, like the minister and promoters of Nigeria Air, that the process of acquiring airline operating certificate (AOC) for Nigeria Air is only at stage one contrary to his televised statement that the Nigerian Air AOC process was at stage five.

“The world is watching the regulator, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) on Nigerian Air and its AOC. The NG Eagles’ AOC is equally a matter for another day.”

The group said the actions and pronouncements of the minister are impugning the integrity of the NCAA and, as such, capable of adversely affecting the ratings of Nigeria’s airlines.

AON also said Sirika cannot order the certification processes by fiat.

“Therefore, an aircraft flying into Nigeria and bearing Nigerian colours does not change anything,” the airlines said.

“Furthermore, the fact that the minister has just a few more days left of his time in office, makes it necessary that promoters of the airline, if they exist, other than Sirika, should be talking to Nigerians, telling them what they ought to know and answering relevant questions about their stakes in Nigeria Air.

“Hadi Sirika knows that until the order is vacated, the ministry of aviation cannot proceed with any action toward the airline.”

Business

NERC transfers regulatory oversight of Niger electricity market to state government

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The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued an order transferring regulatory oversight of the electricity market in Niger to the state’s electricity regulatory commission.

In a statement on Friday, NERC said the decision is in compliance with the amended Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFRN) and the Electricity Act 2023 (Amended).

According to the statement, NERC will maintain its position as the central regulator, overseeing inter-state/international generation, transmission, supply, trading, and system operations in line with the Electricity Act.

“The EA also mandates any state that intends to establish and regulate intrastate electricity markets to deliver a formal notification of its processes and requests NERC to transfer regulatory authority over electricity operations in the state to the State Regulator,” NERC said.

“Based on this, the Government of Niger State complied with the conditions precedent in the laws, duly notified NERC and requested for the transfer of regulatory oversight of the intrastate electricity market in Niger State.”

NERC directed the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) to incorporate a subsidiary (AEDC SubCo) to take over the duties of supplying and distributing electricity within Niger state from AEDC.

The commission said the incorporation of the subsidiary must be completed within 60 days starting from January 10, adding that the subsidiary must apply for and obtain a licence for intrastate electricity supply and distribution from Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission (NSERC).

“Direct Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company Plc (IBEDC) to incorporate a subsidiary (IBEDC SubCo) to assume responsibilities for intrastate supply and distribution of electricity in Niger State from IBEDC,” NERC said.

“IBEDC shall complete the incorporation of IBEDC SubCo within 60 days from 10th January 2024. The subcompany shall apply for and obtain licence for the intrastate supply and distribution of electricity from NSERC, among other directives.”

NERC said all transfers envisaged by the order must be completed by July 9.

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We’ll intensify clampdown on ponzi schemes this year, says SEC DG

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Emomotimi Agama, the director-general (DG) of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), says the regulator’s top priority for 2025 is to revamp regulations on investment fraud, also known as ponzi scheme, to enhance detection and accountability.

In his new year message to the capital market over the weekend, Agama said the commission’s plans for the year also include mainstreaming the Nigerian capital market into the economy.

“The SEC is positioned with a dual mandate in regulating and developing the capital market in Nigeria. Naturally, our top priority in 2025 will cut across the dual mandate. For us, mainstreaming the Nigerian Capital Market into the economy is very vital,” he said.

“Enforcement is the backbone of effective regulation. We are revamping our investigative processes to enhance efficiency and hold bad actors accountable more decisively.

“Insider trading undermines activities and dampens market fairness. By revising our regulatory framework, we aim to strengthen detection, prevention, and accountability mechanisms.

“Transparency is at the heart of investor confidence and capital markets. We will introduce measures to ensure greater visibility and trust in securities transactions.”

Agama also said the commodities market is a major area of interest for the SEC.

“Nigeria is purely an agrarian nation and as such, taking that comparative advantage to the next level, is something that the SEC is proud to be a part of,” he said.

“It is a vital part of the Nigeria economy. This year, we will focus on reinforcing the legal and regulatory structures that support growth so we can create a solid foundation for the vibrant commodities ecosystem. Be it a soft commodity or a hard commodity.

“More so, when we have a plethora of commodities all over Nigeria. The SEC as a partner in development will make sure that we will make the difference.”

The DG added that the commission intends to steer the capital market towards a direction that ensures development reaches every Nigerian in the capital market community.

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Delta Air Lines introduces Nigerian delicacies on Lagos-Atlanta flight

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United State carrier Delta Air Lines has announced the inclusion of local dishes into food options that will be made available to passengers, on its Lagos-Atlanta flight.

In a statement made available to The PUNCH on Thursday, the airline noted that Nigerian delicacies such as ‘Ewa Agoin will now be available to passengers.

It also promised to offer a luxurious travel experience for passengers flying in its Delta One premium cabin from Murtala Muhammed International Airport to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

The airline stated, “This holiday season, passengers can indulge in a delectable range of continental and Nigerian-inspired culinary delights designed to satisfy a variety of tastes while flying.

“As part of the premium cabin experience, Delta One travellers are treated to a carefully curated selection of dishes. Upon take-off, guests can choose from an array of starters, including sliced beef fillet with pineapple salsa and sweet chilli sauce, a refreshing corn soup with toasted corn salsa, or a mixed greens salad with spicy lemon dressing. A sunflower roll, served with whole butter, completes the initial course.”

It will be recalled that in October, Keyamo directed foreign airlines to patronise local caterers for on-board meals.

He gave the directive through a letter dated October 15, 2024, in which the ministry said the directive takes effect from January 1.

While hinting at the new cuisine, the airline also explained that food will now be served twice onboard.

The statement reads partly, “For the main course, Delta showcases the best of Nigerian cuisine alongside international options.

Those in the mood for a traditional Nigerian dish can enjoy roasted cod with basmati rice, agoyin-style beans, and sweet plantains, or opt for grilled chicken thigh with jollof rice and plantain.

A plant-based alternative, featuring a hearty bean stew with rice, spinach, tomatoes, and fried onions, is also available for vegetarians.

“Dessert options include a pineapple upside-down tart with whipped cream, a fresh seasonal fruit assortment, a classic ice cream sundae, or a refined fruit and cheese plate, offering something for every sweet tooth.

“As the flight nears its descent into Atlanta, Delta One passengers are treated to a final meal, featuring spicy chicken pie, a vegetable salad with zesty lemon dressing, and a selection of mini desserts. For those preferring a vegetarian option, jollof risotto with roasted vegetables and a spicy tomato sauce is available, paired with fresh fruit and mini desserts.”

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Bodex F. Hungbo, SPMIIM is a multiple award-winning Nigerian Digital Media Practitioner, Digital Strategist, PR consultant, Brand and Event Expert, Tv Presenter, Tier-A Blogger/Influencer, and a top cobbler in Nigeria.

She has widespread experiences across different professions and skills, which includes experiences in; Marketing, Media, Broadcasting, Brand and Event Management, Administration and Management with prior stints at MTN, NAPIMS-NNPC, GLOBAL FLEET OIL AND GAS, LTV, Silverbird and a host of others

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