The Nigerian Senate has rejected calls to revive Nigeria Air, urging the Federal Government to prioritise direct commercial flights between Nigeria and China through a review of their bilateral aviation agreement.
The lawmakers called on the Ministry of Aviation to renegotiate and enforce the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between both countries to ensure Nigerian airlines enjoy reciprocal access to Chinese airports.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senate Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno, who highlighted the need to address the imbalance in flight operations between Nigeria and China.
According to Channels Television, Monguno argued that the significant Nigerian and Chinese populations living in each other’s countries have created substantial demand for direct air connectivity.
He said improved aviation links would reduce travel time, enhance supply-chain efficiency, boost trade and limit foreign exchange outflows associated with international travel.
The Senate also highlighted the growing economic relationship between both countries and the need for Nigeria to maximise the benefits of its partnership with China.
Contributing to the debate, Senator Abdul Ningi argued that Nigeria was not receiving commensurate benefits from its relationship with China despite the Asian country’s growing influence in the global economy.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio warned that Nigeria might need to reconsider the privileges granted to Chinese airlines if Nigerian carriers continued to face restrictions on direct flights to China.
The Senate subsequently urged the Ministry of Aviation to renegotiate the agreement to establish direct commercial air links between both countries.
Debate Over Nigeria’s National Carrier
An additional proposal by Senator Ned Nwoko to revive Nigeria Airways sparked further debate among lawmakers.
Akpabio questioned the feasibility of reviving the defunct airline, noting that it had long ceased operations.
While acknowledging the importance of having a Nigerian-owned airline, he recalled that the country once operated a fleet of nearly 40 aircraft.
The Senate President urged the Federal Government to explore options for establishing a viable national carrier to address the challenges faced by Nigerian air travellers.
The lawmakers also called on the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to initiate diplomatic discussions with China on facilitating business visas for Nigerian traders and securing reciprocal airport slot allocations.
