Special Assistant on Digital Communications, to President Bashir Ahmad has explained the relationship between Nigeria and Ethiopia as regards Nigeria Air.
Ahmad noted that Ethiopian Airlines is one of the major shareholders of Nigeria Air.
He added that Nigerians should expect to see more Ethiopian Airlines aircraft in Nigeria Air.
Since the news of Nigeria Air aircraft arriving the country, there were growing concerns with some saying that the aircraft was leased from Ethiopian airlines and repainted to Nigeria colours.
The Minister of Aviation, Haji Serika was accused of using the Nigeria Air project to commit fraud.
Dismissing such claims, Ahmad tweeted: “It is never a secret that Ethiopian Airlines is one of the major shareholders/partners in the Nigeria Air Limited projects. Never! Save the cry now, and expect to see more Ethiopian Airlines aircraft branded in our national carrier’s colors.
“Like Nigeria Air, many major airlines around the world are not owned by their governments, British Airways, which IAG owns, is an example.
“This is a February story, but still very relevant and interesting — “After a lengthy selection process, the Federal Government chose Ethiopian Airlines – the continent’s consistently most successful carrier – as its strategic equity partner, with a 49% shareholding in the new company.
“The Government will hold just 5% of the new airline, with other Nigerian investors making up the remaining 46%.
“The intention is that Ethiopian will supply its managerial and organisational expertise, together with an initial batch of aircraft, for the new flag-carrier.”