Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Aviation, Binta Bello, Monday inaugurated the committee on the establishment of the country’s flag carrier following the directive by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Speaking at the inauguration of the committee in Abuja, Bello charged members to pursue the assignment with all seriousness because of its national importance.
According to her, the inauguration of the committee became imperative in view of the interest shown by the president.
She underscored the establishment of a national carrier, saying it was not only justified by economic considerations, but also strategic national interest, national pride and job creation potential.
Members of the committee include a former Managing Director of Discovery Airlines, Captain Muhammad Abdullahi, who is Chairman.
“The committee must expand it searchlight by reviewing the report on the failure of the defunct Nigeria Airways and other failed private airlines,” Bello said.
The committee also has the mandate to consult widely with stakeholders on the establishment of a national carrier, including interested international partners on setting up a national carrier on the basis of Public Private Partnership (PPP) strategy.
The permanent secretary also charged the committee to invite the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to determine the debt profile of domestic airlines to serve as a guide in its recommendations, and to develop the optimum model for a national flag carrier for the country.
The committee has four weeks to complete its assignment and submit its report.
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