The Federal Government is reportedly considering resuming discussions with Ethiopian Airlines to revive the failed Nigeria Air project under a new arrangement.
The initial partnership, initiated by former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, faced strong opposition from industry stakeholders and was eventually scrapped.
Critics, including Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, argued that the deal was an attempt to hand over Nigeria’s national carrier to Ethiopian Airlines.
Tensions between Nigeria and Ethiopia escalated after the project’s cancellation, leading to diplomatic interventions.
Presidents Bola Tinubu and former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde held private discussions on the matter, while Tinubu later sent a fact-finding delegation to Addis Ababa.
Ethiopian Airlines expressed concerns over Keyamo’s strong opposition, with a representative, Michael Adebayo, warning that continued criticism could strain bilateral relations.
In a letter to President Tinubu dated October 15, 2024, the airline insisted that it had complied with Nigerian regulations and denied allegations of monopolizing the aviation sector.
Recent diplomatic engagements fueled speculation about a renewed deal, especially after Keyamo met with Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew last week.
However, the minister denied reopening discussions, stating that his visit was merely a courtesy call during the African Union summit in Addis Ababa.
Despite this denial, Ethiopian Airlines’ social media post about the meeting has reinforced speculation that negotiations may be back on the table.
