Reps Probe Debt Crisis In Aviation

Posted by Tolulope Ogugua Featured, Latest Headlines, News Across Nigeria Thursday, September 30th, 2021

(AFRICAN EXAMINER) – The House of Representatives has instructed its Committee on Aviation to investigate the claims and counter claims relating to debts in the aviation industry.

The committee is to report within six weeks for further legislative action.

This followed the adoption of the motion on the need to look into the debt crisis in the aviation industry moved by Hon Alli Taofeek during plenary yesterday.

The House noted that the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, had raised concerns over billions of naira debt owed agencies such as the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) by airlines.

The House was disturbed that the debt claims and counterclaims are misleading, unprofessional, unethical and strongly deviate from the tenets of transparency and accountability.

It said it was acquainted of the need to investigate the debt crisis in the aviation industry and other related matters to straighten the records and proffer lasting solutions to the debt crisis in the industry.

The House noted that the aviation industry plays a pivotal role in providing a rapid worldwide transportation network, which makes it essential for global activities.

It also noted that the industry generates economic growth, creates employment and facilitates international trade and tourism and other essential services, such as defence.

The House said it was also aware that the Federal Government has invested massively in the aviation sector thereby heightening the expectations of stakeholders.