- Nigeria’s Senate has rejected proposals to revive contracts for the failed Nigeria Air project
- The Senate called for a revision of the bilateral air services agreement with China
- Lawmakers want Nigerian airlines to operate direct flights to China
- There are currently no direct services between China and Nigeria
- Nigeria is looking at establishing a new flag carrier by the end of 2027
Nigeria’s Senate has rejected proposals to revive contracts awarded for the establishment of the failed Nigeria Air project. The Senate also called for a revision of the country’s bilateral air services agreement with China to enable Nigerian airlines to operate direct flights. The resolutions followed a motion sponsored by Senate chief whip Tahir Monguno calling for enforcement of the Nigeria-China BASA and greater reciprocal access for Nigerian carriers.
Senate president Godswill Akpabio reported further discussions on reviving the Nigeria Air project should cease citing legal complications and alleged mismanagement. He urged the federal government to explore alternative options for establishing a viable national carrier. Nigeria is looking at establishing a new flag carrier by the end of 2027 after a government change and legal action by private airlines in 2024 sank plans for Nigeria Air.
On China lawmakers demanded an immediate review of the BASA to secure reciprocal direct-flight rights for Nigerian airlines potentially opening routes between Lagos and Abidjan and major Chinese destinations. They also urged diplomatic engagement to secure favourable airport slots. There are currently no direct services between China and Nigeria by either Chinese or Nigerian carriers.
