The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Aviation, Nnolim Nnaji, has asserted that Nigeria needs strong flag carriers to be successful in the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Nnaji said in Lagos on Sunday that the country had remained passive in the continental aviation market in recent years despite its huge daily passenger traffic.
However, he said that floating a fully government-owned airline might not be an alternative.
According to him, the committee will work closely with the executive arm of the Federal Government to ensure that competent local airlines are supported to assume the status of flag carriers and operate internationally.
“We all know the important role aviation plays in stimulating international trade. So, if we must be relevant in AfCFTA initiative, our aviation must be of global standard in every aspect,” he said.
