Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika says government is to retaliate against countries that impose flight ban from Nigeria.
The principle of reciprocity will appjy to block foreign airlines from countries that have imposed bans on flights from Nigeria.
“Only airlines from countries that allow flights from Nigeria would be allowed to fly into and out of the country,” James Odaudu, a Ministry spokesperson said.
Daudu explained that Govt decision to retaliate foreign flight bans is not against foreign nationals but targeted at airlines.
Nigeria’s threat is informed by decisions to ban flights from Nigeria by some countries battling to control spread of Covid19.
Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Musa Nuhu, spoke of plans for hitch-free flights.
He said at a recent briefing that airlines are being informed on arrangements being put in place for international flights.
Local carriers plying international routes warmly welcomed the decision which they said will help country’s image and the fledgling industry.
Allen Onyema, the CEO of Airpeace, was quick to dispatch a letter of effusive praise to the Minister.
The retaliation threat, he said, elevates Nigeria’s image and signal that it is “no more business as usual.”
“You are causing a positive revolution in the aviation world. You have, by this action, brought so much respect to our people and our nation.
“Nigerians all over the world are walking tall … since the last few hours when the news broke out.
This is the beginning of the end of the stigmatization of Nigeria and everything Nigerian. God bless you always,” he said.
Aviation Minister Sirika announced on 17 August that international flights will resume in Nigeria in a week.
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