Airline operators appeal to FG for low cost loans

Aviation Nigeria

Airline operators have began an appeal to the Federal Government for low cost loans which they say will help keep them afloat.

Speaking on the needs of airline operators, the Chief Executive Officer of Overland Airways, Captain Edward Boyo stated that the problems of domestic airline operators include low capacity of funding institutions, which hampers aircraft acquisition and high lending rates to airlines which have created a major challenge for many operators and increasing lease rates.

“The problem that operators have is high financing of aircraft. This is a problem in Nigeria and Africa, generally. We have lower financing costs in Europe and more advanced countries." Boyo said.

He added that the last intervention fund had a good intention from the government, but many airlines did not get the cash.

"The banks that were generous in funding the airlines got into trouble. Even despite the intervention, to show you how deep airlines were in the negative, the intervention fund was not sufficient." He added

Others, according to Boyo, are prohibitive maintenance costs, high import duties and taxes on aircraft parts, which add to operators’s piralling cost.

Delta Air Lines acquires 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic

Aviation Nigeria

United States carrier, Delta Airlines, has acquired a 49 per cent stake in the United Kingdom’s Virgin Atlantic Airlines founded by British airline mogul, Sir Richard Branson.

An unconditional merger clearance was granted by the European Commission and the US Department of Justice closed their review of the transaction, giving Delta complete acquisition of a 49 per cent stake in Virgin Atlantic.

According to a statement from the airlines’ offices in Nigeria, the developments mark the next step towards a full joint venture between the two carriers.

In the statement, Virgin Atlantic’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Craig Kreeger, stated that:

“Today is an important day for Virgin Atlantic and our customers in both the US and UK as new shareholders in the airline, Delta is an important ally in the all-important trans-Atlantic market. We can stand firm together against the competition and can now offer more destinations, a smoother connecting airport experience and ultimately the best trans-Atlantic on board experience."

The statement also added that Delta and Virgin Atlantic have also commenced a code-share agreement across 108 routes, offering passengers seamless connections to 66 destinations across North America and the UK.

The two airlines announced their intention to enter into a joint venture agreement in December 2012.

Nigeria has become a reference point for safety and security in Africa – Aviation Minister

Aviation Nigeria

Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Adaeze Oduah has stated that Nigeria has become a reference point for safety and security in Africa.

The Minister made this assertion while presenting her scorecard at the 2013 Ministerial Platform in Radio House Abuja.

Oduah maintained that the current aviation facilities and standard of operation is not set to see safety and security as a destination, but as continuous process.

“Safety & Security is not a destination. We don’t stop, it is a continuous process” Oduah said.

The Minister also stated that agencies responsible for providing meteorological services were not common in Africa, and that the Nigerian Meteorological Agaency (NIMET) is still the first of its kind in Africa.

“Airlines in Nigeria now use scientifically informed weather forecasts for flying and we have re-enforced our search and rescue centers to curtail unexpected airline incidences” Oduah stated.

Oduah said the administration was looking forward to leaving Nigerians with World Class Terminals for local & international air transit, well secured and safe airports in the country, Very strong private sector driven National & Domestic Carriers, and a Self sustaining Aviation Sector that will contribute over 6% to Nigeria’s GDP growth.

The minister also commended the efforts of President Goodluck Jonathan for his support to the sector, adding that the aviation sector is currently 150% safer.

Oduah also said that the aviation sector was working towards building a vibrant domestic and national carrier for the nation.

Minister of Information, Labaran Maku also stated that the aviation sector transformation under aviation minister Princess Stella Oduah is one which totally transformed the once docile sector.

“When men were Ministers in Aviation, our airports were like poultry sheds.” Labaran said.

Maku commended the efforts of President Goodluck Jonathan in the transformation agenda of the aviation ministry, adding that the Aviation Minister was the greatest testimony of what women can do in Nigeria, if given the position.

Kenyan Aircraft remains Grounded in Lagos

Aviation Nigeria

A Kenyan aircraft grounded in Nigeria on 3 June, 2013, for non-adherence to security procedures remains grounded, Nigerian aviation authorities said on Thursday, stretching diplomatic relations between both countries following a recent deportation of Nigerians from the East African country.

The Kenyan plane, a DC-9, had landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, southwest Nigeria, with three Nigerian deportees and 15 crew members when it was grounded for security reasons.

The aircraft with registration number, 5Y-SAX is owned by Cavoc Airline.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, said the aircraft has been detained since 3rd of June under the directive of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The coordinating general manager, corporate communications, aviation parastatals, Yakubu Dati who confirmed the grounding of the aircraft, said the plane is still undergoing security screening 17 days after it was grounded and would be ‘released’ when completed.

The deported Nigerians, Dati said, are still in detention at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the watchful eyes of security agencies.

“On the 3rd of June at about 18:36 hours, a Kenya aircraft with registration number 5Y-SAX, owned by Cavoc Airlines arrived Nigeria with a total of 18 persons. Among them, 15 were crew members while three were passengers. The three Nigerians were said to be deportees from Kenya, but the security agencies in Lagos discovered that certain procedures were not complied with and subsequently grounded the aircraft.

“That is why the aircraft has been grounded and it is going through security routine at the moment. As soon as the grey areas are clarified the aircraft will be released according to the laws of the land. The type of aircraft is DC-9 and the deported are still under detention,” Dati said.

The announcement of the grounding of the Kenyan plane comes only five days after a Ukrainian plane was also grounded in Kano northern Nigeria, for allegedly carrying a suspicious cargo. 

Akinkuotu appointed as new NCAA Director General

Aviation Nigeria

Captain Fola Akinkuotu has been appointed as the new Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

Akinkuotu up until his recent appointment, was the Rector of International Aviation College, Ilorin, and has been a pilot/flight engineer with over 40 years aviation experience.

“The airline industry is not that of immediate profit, but it is a cash cow." Akinkuotu stated while talking to newsmen after his recent appointment.

Describing himself as well as his wealth of experience, the former head of flight operations in Air Nigeria, Akinkuotu said:

“My name is Captain Fola Akinkotun; I am the Rector of International Aviation College, Ilorin, which is the newest aviation college in Nigeria. I have been in the aviation industry most of my life. I will definitely say over 40 years in the industry. I started out as an aircraft engineer and I became a flight engineer and a pilot. I have flown in most of the airlines in Nigeria and I have over 13,000 hours of jet time. I have been in various things; I have been an instructor; a VIP pilot, I flew the Pope in 1997. I have done my bit.”

Akinkuotu was nominated following a recomendation to the Senate by President Goodluck Jonathan as a replacement to the former Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Dr. Harold Demuren.

The President stated that the action was part of the  recent moves by the Federal Government to restructure the aviation industry. 

Globallinks introduces pilgrimage flights in Nigeria

Aviation Nigeria

Globallinks, a tour company that specialises in Christian pilgrimages, has introduced its first Israel/Jordan pilgrimage package.

According to a statement from the company, the recent arrival of a Jordanian carrier into the Nigerian market has created the need to include Jordan in the pilgrimage packages.

It said the new tour package would allow prospective pilgrim ‘experience Isreal and Jordan in one single pilgrimage.

The statement by the Chief Executive Officer, Globalinks, Mrs. Chinyere Umeasiegbu, said:

“This offers an all inclusive opportunity for Nigerians wishing to experience life as it was in the land walked by Jesus Christ when he was alive. The pilgrimage experience is a once in a lifetime experience for most Christians. Close to 30000 Nigerians do the Christian pilgrimage every year.”

She noted the company was fully licensed by the International Air Transport Association, Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission, and Nigeria Tourism Development Commission to carry out private pilgrimages and operate outbound and inbound tours respectively.

SOURCE: Fly Naija

Opinion Ed: Aviation Industry in Nigeria, the Great Metamorphosis

by Ugwuja Johnson Udoka

Infrastructural development taking place in Nigerian airports, from those located at the heart of the Savannah in the north, to those at the fringe of the rain forest in the South, bears eloquent testimony to the success of the transformation agenda of the Federal Government in the aviation industry. 

The nation’s airports now wear a new look with the grand re-modelling project currently going on at the airports, courtesy of the foresight of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and the courage and determination of the Honorable Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah. 

It is no longer news that ultra-modern airport terminals are springing up at various airports at the blink of an eye. What is news now is the great impact of this developmental metamorphosis and the deep-seated attitudinal change it has brought about in airport users nationwide. 

There is no doubt, environment affects attitude. Airport environment hitherto commanded no respect as users could afford to splash and litter the environment at ease. The story is different today. The saying that cleanliness is next to godliness has truly found meaning in our airports. Travelers and other airport users can afford to savor fresh air while transiting to various destinations and transacting businesses at the nation’s airports. 

It was indeed a moment of true confession and kudos to the Honorable Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah, at the recently concluded 24th Enugu International Trade Fair, in which the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) participated actively. Investors and discerning members of the public who visited FAAN’s stand lauded the efforts of the present leadership in the aviation industry. Some of them literally went emotional as they praised the invisible hand that tele-guided Princess Stella Oduah into the aviation industry as the Honorable Minister. 

This was how Mr. Abiola Daisy Idufueko of Que Initiative (NGO), No. 2A Idahosa Street, Off 2nd Cemetery Road, Edo State, expressed his joy and enthusiasm about the transformation in the aviation industry in the country: “With what we have seen in Benin Airport, we are very very impressed. We say to Princess, the sky is your starting point. God bless you real good.” Dr. Nwaneri of Department of Surgery, University Teaching Hospital, Enugu picked it from there: “I am impressed with what I saw.” That was not all. Passion came alive with the commendation from Njoku Obiageli of Union Bank of Nigeria, Okpara Avenue, Enugu State: “You are really doing a great job in re-modelling our airports. Keep it up.”

It did not end there. Valentine Poly Okafor of Union Express Ltd, 1 Garden Avenue Enugu, lauded the current change in aviation industry thus: “Highly impressed with the transformation going on nationwide in the airports of our country by Princess Adaeze. Kudos!! The encomiums continued unabated while the trade fair lasted.

From what our highly esteemed visitors confessed above, one thing is clear: that the Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Adaeze Oduah, has surpassed her predecessors, as today’s airports, under her close watch, have become the pride of the Nigerian people, who now see themselves as the true owners of the nation’s airport business.

Genuine investors from all walks of life, across the globe, are now willing to collaborate with the Ministry of Aviation and FAAN to explore the investment opportunities at Nigerian airports as exemplified by the MoU signed by the Governments of China and Nigeria to build five world-class ultra-modern international airport terminals in Nigeria. This is an indication that the present handlers of aviation matters in the country have won both domestic and international trust and confidence. This means that the aviation industry in Nigeria is truly playing a key role in making Nigeria realize her vision of becoming one of the biggest 20 economies in the  world come year 2020.

The current revolution in aviation industry in Nigeria has generated many job opportunities in the last one year as ready employees now find succor in the industry. 

What else need be said? To revive a sub-sector hitherto in coma and bring it to the limelight, placing it in a vantage position of serving as the engine of the nation’s economic growth, is no mean task to say the least.

It is on this note that we congratulate Mr. President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the Hon. Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Adaeze Oduah and the Managing Director/CEO, FAAN, Mr George Uriesi, for the metamorphosis that has taken place at our airports in the last one year, making them the pride of the nation.

Ugwuja Johnson Udoka writes from the Corporate Communications Department, FAAN Headquarters, Ikeja, Lagos.

UK Visa bond policy, Senate threatens reciprocative action

Aviation Nigeria

Members of the Senate have stated a reciprocal action on the recently introduced UK Visa bond requirement.

Chairman Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Mattew Nwagwu who spoke to newsmen in Abuja stated that Nigeria will take reciprocal action against British citizens once formal notification has been received from the U.K immigration authorities.

The policy which compels foreigners visiting the UK from selected countries including Nigeria, to make a £3,000 bond deposit before entry has recently been countered by a majority of the Senate.

Speaking on the decision, Senate Leader, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba stated that:

" I will like to say immediately that diplomacy is based on reciprocity and it is not an option that is lost on us."

Chairman Committee on rules and Business and its counterparts in the Petroleum (Downstream) and Navy committees, also said the policy would greatly hurt relations between Nigeria and Britain.

The policy which requests this payment at the point of entry was recently introduced by the United Kingdoms immigration authorities, and is scheduled to be effective in November 2013.

Land Dispute: Lagos Court rules in favor of FAAN

Aviation Nigeria

A Federal High court in Lagos on Wednesday ruled in favor of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria(FAAN) in protracted dispute between the Authority and AIC Ltd owned by Chief Harry Akande.

The presiding Judge, Honourable Justice Buba in his judgement, ruled that the Arbitral tribunal, which had awarded AIC Ltd the sum of $48, 124, 000, miss-conducted itself and went outside its jurisdiction in rendering the final award between the parties on June 1, 2010. He therefore declared that the final award null and void and thereby set it aside.

Justice Baba also consolidated and set aside the three suits: 

1. SUIT NO FHC/L/906/2010 FAAN VS A.I.C. LTD

2. SUIT NO FHC/L/CS/1058/2010 A.I.C.LTD VS FAAN

3. SUIT NO FHC/L/CS/1239/2010 AIC LTD VS FAAN 

FAAN had earlier filed an application, challenging the ruling of the arbitrator that awarded AIC Ltd the sum of over 48 million dollars.

AIC Limited had filed two suits on the matter, following the award of the arbitration, seeking first, an order to set aside the decision contained in part of the final arbitration award, asking that the same be remitted back to the arbitrator for reconsideration and secondly, that the arbitration be enforced.

The piece of land, located within the airport premises has been a cause of dispute between the Authority and AIC Ltd owned by Chief Harry Akande. Akande had in January invaded the premises, and force forcefully laid claim to the  parcel of land in question, after driving away some staff of the Federal Airports Authority Nigeria on duty at the site.

FAAN has said it has slated the site for the construction of a hotel complex at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Ikeja, following the judgement delivered by the Federal High Court in Lagos on June 19, 2013, in favour of FAAN.

Speaking on the judgement of the court, General Manager Corporate Communications, FAAN, Mr. Yakubu Dati stated that the judgement has made the plot available for massive infrastructural development at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, under the aerotropolis project, including an ultramodern hotel complex, a multi-storey car park and other related projects, designed to expand facilities at the airport.

Oustanding staff promotions released by FAAN

Aviation Nigeria

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has released all outstanding staff promotions, between 2009 and 2012, as part of the Authority’s staff welfare package.

This was made public by the General Manager, Corporate Communications of Aviation parastatals, Mr Yakubu Dati.

The statement said the promotion exercise, cut across all cadres and airports, and was preceded by a screening exercise, which involved written examinations and oral interviews designed to test the capacity of qualified staff in handling the responsibilities of higher office and their grasp of current developments in the industry. 

The Managing Director of FAAN, Mr. George Uriesi, has congratulated all the promoted staff and asked them to see their promotions as a tonic for greater productivity, in line with the transformation agenda of the Federal Government in the aviation industry as well as the Aviation Sector Master Plan, as developed by the Honourable Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah.

Most of the affected staff have expressed gratitude to the management of the Authority for bringing an end to their long wait for the release of the promotion, most of which preceded the present management.

13 Airports to host cargo terminals

Aviation Nigeria

A total of 13 airports have been earmarked to host perishable cargo terminals. This was contained in a statement by the Coordinating General Manager of Aviation Parastatals, Mr. Yakubu Dati.

Yakubu Dati stated that: 

"At present, based on expression of interest from the private sector and State governments, the following cities have been prioritized to host perishable cargo terminals; Abuja, Akure, Calabar, Ilorin, Jalingo, Jos, Kano, Lagos, Makurdi, Minna, Owerri, Port Harcourt and Uyo."

He also added that these, airports which are in proximity to states which can be relied as food baskets will be developed with international standard perishable cargo facilities to enhance their operations.

State governments have also been encouraged to partner with the Federal government to revive smaller airports, particularly for taxi operations, tourism and cargo operations which could benefit domestic and regional economic development.

“This is to enable them key into the over N250 billion naira annual air freight export market out of Africa. Countries like Kenya, South Africa, Benin, Cote d’ivoire, Ghana, Senegal, Ethiopia, Tanzania and Egypt are participating in the trading in commodities such as fruits, fresh fish, vegetables and flowers while Nigeria, which produces these produce in abundance, records zero participation." It read.

Speaking on the decision Datti stated that provision would also be made to create the much needed storage infrastructure in view of the large volume involved and to facilitate the evacuation of agricultural produce to domestic markets, in conformity with international standards.

Dati pointed out that the European Union (EU) is the main market for African exporters, and accounts for more than 40% of total exports, followed by the US with 20%. Intra-regional trade represented only 8% of the total, with South Africa as the leading exporter to the region with 21% of the total.

He added that the development of Economic Free Trade and Export Processing Zones will be targeted alongside cargo airports and agro-allied industrial clusters, based on local opportunities and the state’s competitive and comparative advantage in agriculture production.

The Nigerian aviation sector is establishing closer co-operation with Federal Ministry of Agriculture and State Governments for concerted and strategic focus to this efforts” Datti stated

Fastjet signs MoU with Red 1 Airways to operate in Nigeria.

Aviation Nigeria

Fastjet plc (fastjet) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) with Nigeria’s Red1 Airways Ltd, to create a low cost airline operating within Nigeria and to destinations across Africa.

The MoU brings together fastjet’s strong brand, reputation, management experience and economies of scale, and Red1’s extensive local market knowledge within Nigeria.

The airline will be branded Fastjet Nigeria.

Fastjet plc is the holding company for African airline Fly540, which operates in Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana and Angola. Flights under the Fastjet brand commenced operations in Tanzania, November 2012.

The airline has introduced Airbus A319s into its fleet and by adhering to international standards of safety, quality, security and reliability; it claims to have brought a new flying experience to the African market at unprecedented low prices.

Red 1 is a Nigerian commercial aviation business and airline holding company based in Abuja, Nigeria. It is in the process of obtaining an Airline Operating Certificate (AOC) and finalizing plans to start a low-cost airline operation to service Nigeria and the rest of Africa from Nigeria.

A statement by the media handlers of the firms said the capital required for the venture will be the responsibility of Red 1.fastjet plc, which will have a minority shareholding in fastjet Nigeria; while a commercial arrangement will exist between Red 1 and fastjet for the provision of the fastjet Brand, Operational Framework and Management Services.

It added, “Fastjet will provide further details on the signing of binding contracts.

Since launching in Tanzania in November 2012, Fastjet has established itself as a provider of safe, reliable and high quality air travel in Africa; Fastjet Nigeria intends to bring this same level of service to Nigeria, the most populated country in Africa with more than 165 million people.

“The Fastjet Nigeria management team will be led by Red 1, who will oversee day to day operations, while the Fastjet plc management team will bring its extensive experience and expertise of the low-cost airline industry to the partnership. Operating within Fastjet’s growing Pan-African organisation the partnership is planned to provide Fastjet Nigeria with an extensive distribution network.”

Source: Premium Times

Plane Crash In Lagos; A Hoax – NAMA

Aviation Nigeria

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has said its attention was drawn to a purported plane crash at Igando, a suburb in Lagos State which it said was a hoax.

The managing director of the agency, Engr. Mazi Nnamdi Udoh while speaking to newsmen on Wednesday said:

"This morning, we were inundated with phone calls and inquiries  over  a crash involving  a small aircraft but there is nothing like that ,it is a hoax  because our system did not capture any missing plane"

The director made the assertion in Lagos on Thursday  while  dispelling the rumor.

Udoh explained that American registered aircraft is marked- N972TF, was written as a scrap belonging of Late Apostle Gabriel Oduyemi of Bethel Ministries and had long been parked at a NAMA facility up till Wednesday night when it was eventually removed.

The aircraft was actually released to Captain M.J.Ekehinde who will be using it for educational purposes in Badagry, Lagos. A cross section of the wings was removed to ease transportation to its new location.

"I affirm again that NAMA facilities are working at optimal level and this could have assisted in detecting any missing plane within the nation’s airspace." Udoh said

He added that while the agency appreciated the concern of the public on responding to the sighting of a plane at an unusual site, he urged the public to always contact police and local government officials with necessary information on such incidence.

Governor Wamakko's plane diverted for safety - Ministry

Aviation Nigeria

The Ministry of Aviation in Abuja on Wednesday said that the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) on wednesday 11 June 2013, diverted an Aircraft carrying, Gov. Aliyu Wamakko of Sokoto State, for safety purposes

This is contained in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Minister of Aviation, Mr Joe Obi in Abuja.

The statement read: 

"A Donnier 328 aircraft carrying Gov. Wamakko and other passengers from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja to Sokoto airport was diverted to Kaduna airport for safety and security precaution measure."

"This followed the near breakdown of law and order at the Sokoto Airport by an unruly crowd of Wamakko's supporters who broke the fence on their way to the tarmac, to welcome the governor.

"Effort by security personnel to prevent the breach of security and movement into the prohibited and restricted areas of the airport was met with stiff resistance from the crowd.

"Sensing that the security and safety of the governor and other passengers is in real danger, NAMA decided to divert the aircraft to Kaduna Airport to restore normalcy at the airport," 

The statement noted that the governor and other passengers on board had since returned and landed safely at the airport, after the crowd had been restrained from entering the restricted zone.

Source: NAN

Saudi Authorities reduce Nigeria's Hajj quota

Aviation Nigeria

National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has said Saudi authorities have reduced Nigeria’s hajj seats from 95,000 to 76,000.

Spokesman of the commission Alhaji Uba Mana stated that the reduction does not affect Nigeria alone as it is a worldwide issue. He also confirmed that Saudi authorities have slashed the total number of pilgrims from all over the world for this year’s hajj by 20 percent.

Uba said, the Saudi authorities, in a letter sent to the commission, pointed out that the measures being taken were due to the ongoing construction works at the Holy Mosque in Mecca, which may not be completed before the 2013 hajj season.

The commission called on states pilgrims’ welfare boards, hajj agencies and other stake-holders to affect the changes as it was made to provide comfort to the pilgrims from all over the world.

Consequently, the commission said the 95, 000 seats allocated to Nigeria has now scaled down to 76,000 pilgrims. The cost of securing a visa to Saudi Arabia for the lesser hajj this Ramadan could also go for more than N300,000 as against the N85,000 charged in previous years.

Pilgrim authorities anticipate the slash in number of pilgrims will begin this Ramadan and more than half the number of intending pilgrims from Nigeria may not secure visas for the coming Umrah.

Saudi Hajj Minister, Dr Bandar Al-Hajjar, has said slots have been distributed to cover the whole year.

“The companies should use the visas granted to them on time and should not hold them to be used in one month,” he said.

Under the new arrangement, according to the minister, the visas will be granted on a monthly basis, and the companies are expected to use them the same month.“If the visas are not used during the same month, they will be cancelled,” the minister warned.

Sokoto Airport to be commissioned before end of 4th 2013 quarter - FAAN

Aviation Nigeria

In furtherance of the Airport Remodelling Project, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has said it is putting in place finishing touches to the remodelling work at the Sultan Saddik Abubakar III International Airport, Sokoto.

This was disclosed through a press statement by FAAN General Manager, Corporate Communications of Aviation parastatals, Mr. Yakubu Dati.

The agency which is handling 22 airport projects nationwide has said it is expected that the remodeled Sultan Abubakar III International Airport will be commissioned before the end of the fourth quarter of the year.

The statement also added that the remodelled terminal has full complement of modern facilities which include; Offices, Shops, Conveyor Belts, Screening Machines, Check-In Counters, Restaurants and Ultra Modern VIP lounges.

It added that the ambiance of the departure and arrivals lounges have also been improved considerably to provide sufficient comfort for all passengers and crew.

The agency also pointed out that the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, which serves as a major link between the North Western part of the country and the rest of the world, will experience new business opportunities with the new commercial offerings that the remodeled terminal will now offer airport users there. 

The airport offers flight connections to Lagos, Abuja and Kano, thereby serving as a major catalyst for investment in the North West zone of the country. The remodelling work which has transformed the 30 years old airport, from its relic image to a modern edifice befitting the ancient city, is one of the 22 airports undergoing remodelling. 

Aerotropolis to transform Nigeria into international business destination - FAAN

Aviation Nigeria

Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria(FAAN), Mr George Uriesi has commended the aviation Aerotropolis project adding that it would transform Nigeria to an internationally important business destination.

Uriesi made this assertion while speaking at a global meeting for airport chief executives and industry leaders organised by the Airport Council International (ACI), and holding in Istanbul, Turkey.

Uriesi who was invited to join global players from Schiphol, Athens, Birmingham and Gatwick amongst others to discuss common challenges in airport developments and chart a new course for the industry gave a summary of the remodelling projects spanning across the country, stating that these were the begining of developments aimed at converting Nigerian airports into competitive continental hubs.

According to him, the benefits of the remodelling projects are already yielding results as FAAN has begin to see significant revenue increases from the commissioned projects.

Uriesi, who also held brief for African Airports gave a comprehensive update and analysis on the current state of development of African airports.

Director General of ACI, Angela Gittens said in supporting the theme entitled 'Dynamic Airpot Business Transformation' the conference was aimed at bringing together an exceptional line-up of CEO speakers and provide a platform for industry stakeholders from around the world.

Other speakers, including Jos Nijhuis, CEO of Schipol Group, Mark Reis, MD Seatle-Tacoma International Airport, Paul Kehoe and CEO, Birmingham Airport amongst others, shared innovations on bold and necessary approaches in business activities to counter both industry pressures and competition while delivering improved performance.

The ACI is the apex body of airport operators and air transport leaders which provides platforms across the world.

Dana: Compensation per passenger, not per family

Aviation Nigeria

The Ministry of Aviation has rejected reports in the media that Dana Air is reluctant to pay family members of the June 3rd 2012 Dana air crash victims claiming compensation is per family and not per passenger.

A statement by the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Aviation, Joe Obi reads “Recently, we have come across disturbing reports in the media quoting some family members of the victims of the Dana air crash of June 3rd, 2012 to the effect that the airline is reluctant or unwilling to pay mandatory compensation to legitimate victims’ families per passenger”

“The reports suggest that Dana airlines, in instances where more than one family member was a victim of the crash, allegedly said it is paying compensation per family, not per passenger as required by law and extant local and international Civil Aviation Regulations.

“For the avoidance of any doubt, compensation for air crash victims is per passenger, not per family. In situations where several family members are victims, as is the case with the Dana crash, compensation is to be paid according to the number of persons involved and not per family as is being alleged against Dana Airline in some media reports. Neither Dana, nor any other airline for that matter can alter this rule.

The Aviation ministry noted that “Specifically, Section 48(3) of the Civil Aviation Act of 2006 provides that in any case of aircraft accident resulting in death or injury of passengers, the carrier shall make advance payments of at least US $30,000 within 30 days from the date of the accident to the natural persons or such natural persons entitled to claim compensation.

“Additionally, Article 17 of the Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules for International Carriage by Air, under the Second Schedule to the Civil Aviation Act of 2006, holds the carrier liable for damage sustained in case of death or bodily injury of a passenger.

It further stated that “Article 21 of the Modifications to the Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules Relating to International Carriage by Air, under the Third Schedule to the Civil Aviation Act of 2006, commands the payment of the sum not exceeding 100,000.00 United States Dollars for each passenger in case of death.

The statement reiterated that compensation is to individual passengers; “Note that the operative words are ”each passenger”. It will therefore be a violent violation of the law for any airline to do otherwise”.

The Ministry warned the general public, especially family members of victims of the Dana crash to “disregard any rumour, excuse or explanation contrary to the foregoing”.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Aviation is working with Dana Airline and the Insurance companies to resolve all lingering issues and expedite the process of payment of full compensation to legitimate family members and Next of Kin of the victims.

Arik Commences New Online Check-in for Passengers

Aviation Nigeria

Arik Airlines has introduced its online check-in services on some of its domestic and international routes on Monday. This was done to help boost passengers’ experience.

The airline’s Managing Director, Mr Chris Ndulue, said this in a statement made available to newsmen at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.

Ndulue said that the service would help customers, especially those travelling without check-in luggage, to save some time they would have spent on queues.

According to him, customers using the service will be able to check-in 24 hours before a flight.

He said they would be able to do so until three hours before the flight, have the opportunity to select their seats, and also print boarding passes.

“Passengers with baggage to check-in can still check-in online and proceed to the counters at the airport for baggage drop and standard security checks.

“The service has been introduced in Arik Air's international locations in Johannesburg, London and New York as well as the key domestic locations of Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt,’’ he said.

According to him, full network coverage of its domestic and regional locations will be progressively rolled out in the coming months. 

FAAN set to relocate Cargo Agents from Airport premises

Aviation Nigeria

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is set to eject customs agents operating in its premises at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos.

General Manager Corporate Communications of FAAN, Mr Yabuku said in a press statement that the authority had constituted a task force to that effect.

He said that the authority would not rescind its decision to eject the cargo operators, adding that FAAN had agreed to relocate the agents after having realizing the prominent roles they play in generating revenue for the government.

Dati said that the authority had also agreed to establish a cargo village for agents in the airport's master plan.

Among the relocations to be made by the FAAN is also all fuel tankers parked within the vicinity of the access gate of the Airport.

According to the general manager, the fuel tankers will be relocated to a safer location along the airport road.

"The present location does not only pose a security risk, but it impedes traffic during peak periods. Since we are in agreement with them and have had several meetings with them, the plan is still ongoing and we shall surely move them" He said.

Dati explained that the plan to relocate the tankers followed a series of meetings with the stakeholders, including oil companies. Dati recalled that FAAN in June 2012, suspended an eviction notice given to the customs agents.

He said that those of them operating legally were relocated to designated places, while the illegal ones were told to stop operation.

Lufthansa urges for improvement in Nigerias Open Skies policy

Aviation Nigeria

Lufthansa Airlines has called on the Nigerian government to improve its open skies policy with foreign airline.

The airlines Managing Director West and Central Africa Mr Claus Becker made this assertion during an award tour for travel agents in Nigeria.

He commended the effort which had been taken to create and implement the recent Aviation Policy and its explicit approach to foreign interests, adding that there was a noticeable opportunities for foreign investment.

Becker said that this would aid in adjusting the economies of demand and supply in the nations aviation market, a reason he pointed out was responsible for the disparity in airline fares across the country, as well as other African nations.

The Director pointed out that the airline had in the past and is still currently fulfilling its  social responsibility to the country through employment and training of Nigerians in airline and aviation technology as well as aviation business.

Becker said that employment was one of the major social responsibility issues supported by the company’s headquarters.

"We have the Memorandum of Understanding to train Nigerian flight attendants and the airline has been having a good relationship with travelling agents in the country" he said.

The Open skies policy was first implemented in the United States of America to liberalize the skies, and provide for seamless operations of air transportation among countries.

Pilot on Oshiomhole’s flight refused to file flight plan & manifest - NAMA

Aviation Nigeria

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has said that it grounded a chartered helicopter conveying Edo State Government, Adams Oshiomhole from Benin to Anambra  after the pilot failed to file a flight plan and manifest.

In a statement signed by NAMA on 7 June 201, the agency said the incident required further clarification and thus made the following submissions:

1. That the pilot of a Helicopter marked 5N-BPX AS335 operated by OAS, was called from Government House Edo State that he would be lifting from there to Awka, Anambra State. He was however informed of the need for official documentation.

2. That for the safety and security of people onboard there is the need to file a flight plan at the airport and submit passenger manifest.

3. That his initial response was that he was flying the Governor and they were going for an important meeting in Awka.

4. That the pilot was advised to lift from the airport direct and do the documentation since he had the Governor who is chief security of the State onboard. This would have taken only three minutes.

5. That the flight plan can be a tool for search and rescue in case of any emergency.

6. That the pilot hesitated for a while and later consented to fly to the airport.

7. That at 10.18 am the helicopter landed at the airport and the pilot went straight to the Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) without manifest as he claimed he didn’t know the names of those on board. He was however assisted to write the names of those onboard for the sake of the Governor.

8. That NAMA officials in line with requirements for safety and security moved quickly to ensure that the pilot complied with the flight procedure and this lasted for 30 minutes.

9. That the said helicopter needed to file in a flight plan because  it is billed to operate in a controlled airspace where it would  be expected for the pilot to yield to air traffic controllers’ instructions.

10. That the Benin Airport, Air Force Commandant, Air Commodore U.J. Atiku told the pilot of the need to file in the necessary papers as a professional and should not give impression that the Governor was denied departure to Awka.

11. That amidst of all these, the governor sought to speak with the Airspace Manager on the cause of delay. The ASM was never given chance to explain the need to observe mandatory procedures for safety and security, rather was verbally assaulted severally while trying to explain the primary reason for the delay.

12. That the Pilot ,Captain Vame believed to be a Korean later apologized to NAMA  officials for his refusal to document his flight and pay the necessary charges. He pleaded that the incident should not be filed against him.

The agency maintained that it was observing the established due process in its operations adding that no political motive was intended.

Drug traffickers arrested at Lagos airport

Aviation Nigeria

Three persons have been arrested by officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the Murtala Muhammed International airport Lagos.

Elioku Simeon Chibuzor, 28; Ogbu Obioma Leonard, 37 and Uzobude Vitus Uju, 43 years were apprehended for injecting  161 wraps of narcotics weighing 3.085kg. Two of the suspects were importing the drugs into the country while one was caught attempting to export the drugs to London.

NDLEA Airport Commander Hamza Umar, who confirmed the arrests said one of the suspects alleged that drug barons were after his life for excreting the drugs he ingested at the airport toilet in Doha.

Elioku who hails from Anambra State narrating how he was arrested said he was promised $2000 to smuggle the drugs from Brazil to Doha

"When I got to Doha, the person who ought to collect the drug from me failed to show up. It was for fear of being caught that made me to dispose the drugs at the airport toilet. I never knew that six wraps were left in my stomach. Now, I have been arrested and the owners of the drugs are after my life." He said.

FAAN to remove illegal advert materials on airports nationwide

Aviation Nigeria

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria(FAAN) has began a removal of all advertisement material on billboards and structures which it considers illegal along the internal road of the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos.

This was made through a press statement on Thursday 6 June 2013 by the agency's General Manager, Corporate Communications, Mr. Yakubu Dati.

FAAN maintained that the placement of certain advert material infringed advertisement rights of agency as some organization responsible for the placing of the advert material did not receive permission to do so.

Mr. Yakuba Dati stated that every advert placement within the airport premises, including the internal and access roads must be legally authorized by FAAN, which has the right over all airport land as contained in the act establishing the agency.

The exercise to remove all illegal advertisements at all airports became imminent as some companies with an existing concession with FAAN have failed to to honor their contract terms.

Yakubu Dati stated that though defying the terms of the contract, some companies have still continued to receive payments from third parties for these advert payments.

The exercise which is to progress nationwide the agency maintains is among its transformationprogram aimed at re-structuring systems of revenue collection and generation by the agency

Dana: Aircraft remains insufficient for mechanical integrity - AIB

Aviation Nigeria

The Accident Investigation Bureau on Tuesday said that the wreckage of the crashed Dana Air aircraft did not have substantial physical evidence that would have provided detailed information as to the mechanical integrity of the airplane.

The bureau said in an interim report that severe damaging and destruction of the aircraft after it fell off the sky had made it difficult to generate sufficient report on the cause of the crash.

Head of Public Affairs of the AIB, Mr. Tunji Oketunbi said investigations into the crash had however, progressed irrespective of the severe destruction of the airplane.

He said: 

"Despite the heavy destruction of the aircraft due to impact and fire, in addition to other post crash disturbance of the wreckage, which resulted in the absence of substantial physical evidence and flight recorder data that would have provided information on the operation, performance and mechanical integrity of the airplane, the investigation has progressed significantly."

Oketunbi however maintained that investigation of Dana Air 992 has proceeded on schedule with the objective of preventing similar accidents in accordance with the Accident Investigation Protocols of the International Civil Aviation Organisation(ICAO).

Oketunbi said the investigative activities had included the full participation of the state of manufacture/design represented by the United States National Transportation Safety Board and technical advisors, the US Federal Aviation Administration, the Boeing Company and Pratt & Whitney Engines.

The AIB noted that the safety issues identified during the investigation included engine and related system performance, flight crew performance, validation of foreign pilot certificates, pre-employment background checks of pilots and maintenance documentation.

It stated that four interim safety recommendations had been issued and implemented by the operator and the regulatory agency.

The bureau added that outstanding investigative activities were near completion and would be followed by the production of the final report.

Gombe to upgrade airport to international standard

Aviation Nigeria

The Gombe State Government has said it plans to upgrade facilities at the Gombe airport to international standard.

Commissioner of Works and Infrastructure, Alhaji Shehu Ahmed while speaking to newsmen said  that the government would key into the current efforts of the Federal Ministry of Aviation to access funds for the project.

He said that the funds would be utilized to remodel the airport's terminal building, provide an operational cargo terminal and cold stores for preservation of perishable goods for export.

"We want what will give Gombe the status of being truly an international airport, not a mixture of arrival and departure but things you see in an international airports in terms of character and design. Our aim is to make the state a real commercial and tourist destination, considering its central location in the North East sub region." Ahmed Shehu said.

The Commissioner also added said the focus on air transport was because of its safety and reliability, as well as timely movement of people and goods for enhanced economic services.

Tribute: Remembering our compatriots aboard Flight J9 992

Aviation Nigeria

by Yakubu Datti

Like a soothing balm, the voices of Bishop Mathew Kukah and Dr. Kabir Adamu led the nation in prayers.

Exactly a year ago, the tides of the times changed irreversibly forever, the loss of lives -the end of dreams. Hopes were dashed all over, treasured memories evaporated in seconds. All over the country, families, colleagues, associates all mourned the tragedy that has come to be known as Dana Air Flight J9 992.

The ill fated aircraft had crashed into the Iju-Ishaga neighbour-hood killing the over 157 on board and also residents of the neighbour-hood. The ensuing weeks after, the country stood united in grief as flags were flown at half mast in honor of the departed passengers. One year after the tragic crash, the anniversary brought to fore again, the sad reminder of the events of June 3, 2012 and the harrowing experience the nation went through.

President Goodluck Jonathan who had visited Lagos in the wake of the crash ensured that their memories were not in vain. For Jonathan, it was an immense loss, of compatriots, of citizens who were not only bread winners with filial attachments to their relations and friends but who were also contributing to the sustainable development of Nigeria in their various capacities.

On June 3, 2013, the President led the Aviation Minister, Princess Stella Oduah and other high profile dignitaries to honor the victims of the accident and unveil a cenotaph built for them as mark of remembrance.

So, also as part of the on-going reform in the aviation sector and also part of the renewed vigor in aviation  accident and investigation, the aviation industry instituted a safety week which will be observed from June 3, 2013 and this is intended to take place every year to bring about a heightened awareness in the industry.

At the memorial event, Christian and Islamic prayers were held for the repose of the souls of the passengers, while the Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah who hosted the event reiterated the commitment of the aviation ministry to ensure that this incident is averted at all cost. The climax and touching moment of the event was the unveiling of the cenotaph by the President which showed the names of the passengers, bringing once more to light, the sad reminder of the crash.

This is being followed by the safety week which is concentrating so much on the appraisal of the actions that had been taken by the aviation industry to improve safety in the sector and the lessons learnt by concerned authorities over the tragic crash. It will be recalled that many facilities linked to the safety and critical components have been improved upon since the Dana Air flight crash, just as all the government agencies in the sector have not rested on their oars but have continued to work to improve safety of flights and the comfort of passengers.

Most importantly, issues of safety and security have been given priority attention with over 80 percent the implementation of recommendations of the Technical and Administrative Review Committee (TARPDA).

Note worthy is the fact that in the last one year there has been an improvement in the area of communication, navigation and installation of modern surveillance equipment in all the airports in the country. There have been massive training and human capacity development of Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) and other technical personnel of all the agencies in the aviation sector and just few days ago, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) flagged off the area radar control, which will further reduce the time of flight, so the Lagos to Abuja flight that used to be 55 minutes may be reduced to 45 minutes, thereby saving airlines huge amounts of money in fuel cost.

On what has been done so far in the area of compensation, the initial 30 per cent compensation has been paid to about 90 relatives of the victims.

In what has been described as the most poignant fall outs of the Dana air tragedy is the initiative by the Ministry of Aviation, to establish the “Victims Family Insurance Programme.” The program is designed to provide additional compensation in case of future occurrences of air accidents in the country and this is in addition to the plan to set up airlines operators insurance compensation scheme.

The memories of the departed will sure linger on forever, as all efforts are being done to ensure that such disaster are averted.

Yakubu Dati is the coordinating General Manager, information and Communications for Aviation parastatals.

Nigerian Airspace Is Safer - NAMA

Aviation Nigeria

The Managing Director of the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Nnamdi Udoh has reassured travellers of a safer air travel in the country.

Mr Udoh, who was a guest on Channels Television’s breakfast programme, Sunrise Daily, advised travellers that boarded an aircraft that could not land due to poor weather condition to “walk up to the pilot and inquire why he did not get destination weather, did he not get briefed on weather before departure?”

He said this is important “because it is now mandatory for every pilot to go and get from the aeronautical information services’ operational office weather briefs, enroute and destination to be able to fly comfortably and arrive safely.”

Mr Udoh said the Nigerian aviation industry is compliant with the global standards as far as metrological information is concerned.

“The Nigerian Metrological Agency, recently got ISO9001 certified so you must be sure that the data our metrological agency gives out are correct,” he said.

The NAMA boss said a second development that has restored confidence in the country’s airspace is the strengthening of air traffic regulations by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

He said, “The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has strengthen its general aviation arm; has strengthen its ramp inspection in ensuring that airlines do maintenance as required and are properly supervised.”

We will make our airspace safer - President Jonathan

Aviation Nigeria

President Goodluck Jonathan has said that the administration will work towards making the Nigerian air safer.

He made this statement during the unveiling of a Cenotaph at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja.

The event marked the one year remembrance of the tragic crash of Dana Air flight J9 992 which led to the loss of over 157 lives at Iju/Ishaga in Lagos on June 3, 2012.

President Goodluck Jonathan stated that: "We also share a profound feeling of loss to all other aviation incidents in the country and will remain committed to do everything possible to avoid such an occurence in the future"

He also stated that since the Dana incident, critical safety equipment had been improved  as well an implementation of the Technical and Administrative Review Committee (TARPDA) recommendations.

The aviation industry has also instituted a safety week which will be observed from June 3, 2013 every year, to honour of those who lost their lives in one of the nations most tragic air transport accidents.

Dana Aicraft flight J9 992 took off from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International airport, Abuja in the afternoon of June 3 last year and crashed about one minute to landing at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

The Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah led the church service for the crash victims, with the Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah as the chief host of the ceremony which climaxed with the Presidents unveiling of the cenotaph.

The DANA Plane Crash Like A Movie – An Eye-witness Account

by Adeniyi Aliu

Like a scene in a movie, the events of June 3rd 2012 is not one I can ever forget in a hurry. It was 3.56pm and everyone had formed clusters around available TV set in preparation to watch the Nigerian National Football team play their Namibian counterpart in Calabar, a home match for the Eagles. Then came a loud scream from the grocery shop across my house, it was the owner shouting “Ki le leyi?” in Yoruba which by interpretation is “what is this?”

Such yell would arrest anyone, it was certainly an alarm! We all trooped out, since the match had not started, a little amusement could spice up a bright Sunday afternoon. No-one could guess what was behind such a distress shrill.

Getting outside, the feeling was of shock as well as amazement – an aircraft flying so close to the house roof? This must be a movie stunt, I thought at the time.

Haven always had a desire to understand the rudiments of movie-making; I thought it best to search for a camera so I could capture this rare spectacle. Some Nollywood stars must be behind this first-ever, real-live video shoot, I must fast locate the camera crew of this movie-in-the-making, I thought.
Then, it occurred to me that this massive object, with the inscription “DANA Airlines”  and as huge as the 3 storey building nearby can in no way be a stunt prop. Too close, the scene too real, too dangerous to be one.

Then poured comments and several questions – “What is the pilot doing?” “Is this a joke?” “This is in no way funny?” came in different languages and from different lips already aghast by the sight of the big bird hovering side to side, up and down. My cousin and I glanced at one another, and then it dawned on us that it was no joke after-all.

Little did we know that the pilot was in his moment of helplessness, confusion, anguish and last-minute attempt to save not just himself, but other one hundred and sixty souls (or thereabout) entrusted into his care just 45 minutes ago in Abuja.

Right at that moment the obviously-distressed aircraft took a sharp plunge straight ahead into a building occupied by a church (Redeemed Christian Church of God) sweeping though a newly constructed but yet-to-be-occupied residential building! Boom! It was a deafening sound. We – my neighbourhood was hit by a sad reality!

Those of us who had thronged out at first ran towards the crashed plane, and many were astounded by the loud sound, not knowing what the cause was.  We only could point in the direction,  a few of us could mutter “plane”, “ fly” “crash” or any other thing to communicate the horror, the thoughts in most minds was apparently running at a faster pace than words could express. The shock was indescribable!

In a moment, we got close enough but could not see much at first because of the smoke from the plane. A climb up the fence of a building nearby gave a view of the crashed plane.

Some others ran towards a 3-storey building which had a hit from the shredded wing of the plane. That was the house that the family who fell victim lived; they were reportedly seated, ready to watch the football match my entire neighbourhood ended up not watching.

As if in a flash, a fire started in a part of the building. Then came a man shouting from the balcony of the third floor, “What happened?” The yells of “plane!” “fire!” “jump!” from us all saw the man disappeared inside the house, to the bewilderment of everyone. However, he emerged few seconds later with a young child (his child), jumped down with the child wrapped and clutched to his body. As we later found out, the staircase was already crushed by the impact of the crash. I had believed and prided my father the best, but I must confess, I saw the great father in this man.

He landed alive but with a dislocated arm. We could only scream from a distance “Come out”, “Come out”; we were all too scared to go drag him out of the premises for fear another explosion or of the building collapsing. It took him about 3 minutes to get up, as he struggled out through the gate to the waiting arms of those of us who had alerted him.

We were interested in anyone still left in the building;  we asked, he could only mutter that his brother-in-law was in one of the rooms, fast asleep while he and his child were waiting for the other members of his family to come back from church. The agony of this moment was beyond words as we knew we could not risk going into the building to help the brother-in-law or anyone left.

Many residents of Iju have by now summoned the sense and courage to make calls continuously to media houses. Every known SOS agencies were contacted and bombarded with calls for help.
By now, the time was 4.30pm. Scores have gathered from everywhere around to catch a glimpse of what was going on.  Many living on Olaniyi Street and all around it started evacuating few valuables – TV sets, mattresses, chairs – in fear of an eventual fire to their homes. Generating sets were top priorities for most, as this was thought, and wisely so, a great aid to any inferno.

We could only wait for fire-fighters and rescue teams. The policemen from the nearest police station, Adeshola station came but could not do much. Indeed, no one knew what to do! We tried to break the windows of the burning storey building by throwing stones to allow for space for anyone who might be trapped and searching for a way of escape but none came out.

People started praying in their different religious faiths and tongues. A great many were in agonising tears. I was in tears. Old men with gray hairs were in tears, crying like babies. I have never seen such emotionally-rending scene, never!

There were those who wanted to have a share of the loot but those of those who got to the scene earlier prevented them to the best of our capacity.

The first set of fire-fighters came 40 minutes after the crash to the elation of us all. At least, all the houses would not be razed by this fire, as we all initially envisaged! We were ready to help and we encouraged the safety men so.

Despite the efforts of the fire-fighters, it was clear to us that with the raging fire, from the crashed aircraft or the buildings affected, it would be a miracle for any of the trapped occupants to make it through. The smoke from the airplane has now become a huge raging fireball! No one could go near, the heat was intense. We only could stare helplessly from a distance.
The first fire fighting crew did very well, and by the time they ran out of water, other trucks came. It was 5.40p.m.

Two helicopters were hovering, one belonging to Governor Fashola of the Lagos State (or so I thought) and another of the Nigeria Air Force which could not find a space to land.
The crowd had grown large, in their multitudes. Rescue workers from the Red Cross, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency team, The Police; in fact, every known law-enforcement agency was represented in their droves.

At 6.20pm, the rescue workers could go into the building to bring out victims- many of them, burnt beyond recognition, laid in body bags and whisked away by stand-by ambulances. What a day, what a scene, what a horror!


The quiet Iju community has since become a tourist site for many, robbed of its peace by the cruel angel of death.