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Ethiopian Airlines Emerges Preferred Bidder For Nigeria Air

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As part of preparations to float the proposed national carrier, the Federal Government on Friday announced Ethiopian Airline as the preferred bidder.

Minister of Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika, said the national carrier, Nigeria Air will be launched with Boeing 737-800 (NG) aircraft, followed thereafter with B787 aircraft for international operations.

He expressed hope that the airline would be launched mid-November after approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

Speaking on the status of the airline, the minister said: “The National Carrier, Nigeria Air, is well on its way to being launched with three Boeing 737-800 in a configuration very suitable for the Nigerian market.

 “Nigeria Air will launch with a shuttle service between Abuja and Lagos to establish a new comfortable, reliable and affordable travel between these two major Nigerian airports.

“Other domestic destinations will follow thereafter.”

On how they arrived at the highest bidders, Sirika said: “A bidders’ conference was held online on 28th March, 2022 with over 100 participants. Over 60 parties requested access to the data room. On 10th June 2022 the ministry received on time one closed bid by the Ethiopian Airline Consortium. Few others attempted to submit, but unfortunately could not meet the deadline. Since we did not collect the bids, we are not in a position to say who they are.

“The evaluation Team, 11 Experts from ICRC, FMFB&NP, FMA and the TA met on the 20/21st July 2022 and again on 1st August 2022.

 “The Ethiopian Airline Consortium bid was formally opened in the presence of a representation of Ethiopian Airlines, checking that all envelopes were closed and sealed at that point, 11am on 20th July, starting with the Technical Bid. The Financial Bid was opened, again under the observation of the Ethiopian representative, on 21st July 2022.

“All 10 forms, as required by the RFP, were evaluated by the team. Unanimously, the assessment team cleared the Technical Bid, which had a total score of 89% out of 100.

 “In a further meeting on 1st August, 2022, the team assessed the Financial Bid further and graded it with a score of 15% out of 20.

“The Ethiopian Airline Consortium got a combined score (Technical and Financial Bid) of 86.7%.

“Ethiopian Airline Consortium was declared the Preferred Bidder.

“After a careful, detailed and ICRC governed selection process, Ethiopian Airlines (ET) Consortium has been selected as preferred bidder, offering an owner consortium of 3 Nigerian investors MRS, SAHCO and the Nigerian Sovereign Fund (46%), FGN owning 5% and ET 49%.

“The consortium has been subject to a due diligence process, after which the contract will be negotiated between the consortium and the FGN, leading to a Full Business Case, which will be expected to be approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

“We expect this process to take 6-8 weeks.”

On the amount spent so far on the entire process, he said: “The money spent so far for all we have done is less than N400million. The claim that we spent N14billion for the process is not true.

“The money spent for the launch of Nigeria Air, for all the requirements to establish an AOC and be admitted starting an airline operation, is well within the 5% capital investment of the Federal Government of Nigeria, that will be overall needed to establish the National Carrier initially for the AOC approval and everything else required by stringent national aviation regulations, as prescribed in the FEC approved Outline Business Case (OBC).

“The OBC is the milestone for the preferred Bidder Consortium and has been met by the submitted business plan of the preferred bidder. It is the overall share capital of around 300 Mio USD, provided by the preferred bidder that will launch Nigeria Air to its full size of 30 aircraft and international operation within the next four years.

“No further FGN funding will be provided above the 5% share capital of the next national Carrier of Nigeria, which was provided to launch Nigeria Air.”

On the number of aircraft to start operation, he said: “Three aircraft were searched for by the interim Executive experts and several offers were evaluated, from highly experienced and competent operators.

“The contract was negotiated with three final candidates, and a signature-ready contract has been finalized with Ethiopian Airlines for three Boeing 737-800 with a 16 Business Class and 150 Economy Class configuration.The first aircraft is ready to arrive in Abuja for  further work and NCAA inspection, demo flights and audit as part of the AOC requirements.

“In time, two others will arrive to complete the required three aircraft for a new AOC holder.”

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Pelumi Nubi: Pioneering Adventure from London to Lagos

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In a world of 195 countries, the name Pelumi Nubi stands out. At the youthful age of 27, she had already set foot in 77 of them, spanning six continents. But it wasn’t until January 24th that Nubi embarked on a journey that would etch her name in the annals of history as the first Black woman to travel from London to Lagos by road.

Setting out from London, Pelumi Nubi, a UK-based Nigerian global traveler and content creator, embarked on a monumental adventure fueled by a desire to inspire others and showcase the beauty of Africa. Her journey spanning over two months.

The route was ambitious, stretching from England to France, then down to Spain and Morocco. From there, Nubi navigated the treacherous terrain of the West Sahara desert before crossing into Mauritania, Senegal, and a host of West African countries, including The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Ghana, Togo, and Benin, not just passing through each city, pelumi ensures she spend a couple of days showcasing the food, tourist attraction and hospitality of Africans

However, the road was not without its challenges. Pelumi encountered obstacles such as a 24-hour hold at the Liberian border and being denied entry to Sierra Leone. In Ivory Coast, she faced a terrifying accident that damaged her car. Yet, undeterred by these setbacks, she pressed on, fueled by determination and the unwavering belief in her mission.

After covering a staggering 10,000 kilometers (over 6,200 miles) in her trusty purple Peugeot 107, affectionately named « lumi, » Nubi finally arrived at her ultimate destination – the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria. Her journey was not only a testament to her resilience but also a celebration of African diversity and unity.

In recognition of her remarkable feat, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, honored Pelumi Nubi by naming her as a Lagos Tourism Ambassador. Additionally, she was presented with a house and a branded LAGRIDE vehicle, bearing the custom number plate « NUBI 9JA. »

But perhaps the most poignant moment came when Nubi decided to part ways with her beloved travel companion, lumi. Donating the car to the Lagos State Museum, she expressed her hope that it would inspire others to seek adventure and explore the world.

Pelumi Nubi’s journey from London to Lagos is more than just a road trip; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s boundless capacity for adventure and exploration. Through her bravery and determination, she has not only made history but also inspired countless others to embark on their own journeys of discovery. As she continues to blaze trails and push boundaries, Pelumi Nubi remains a beacon of inspiration for adventurers and dreamers around the world.

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AIR PEACE LAUNCHES LAGOS-LONDON FLIGHT SERVICES: A MILESTONE FOR NIGERIAN AVIATION

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Nigerians are celebrating a significant milestone in the aviation sector as Air Peace announces the commencement of its Lagos-London flight services. Allen Onyema, the Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, revealed that the airline has already sold out tickets for these flights until September, reflecting the overwhelming demand for this new route.

 

The inauguration of the Lagos-London flights on March 30 marked a historic moment for Air Peace, Nigeria’s flag carrier. Speaking in an interview with Arise TV, Onyema expressed his optimism for the future of the airline, emphasizing its plans to expand its fleet to over 60 aircraft.

 

From the moment Air Peace published its fares, the response has been remarkable. The inaugural flight sold out within days, with bookings stretching all the way to September. Despite the challenges faced in the last 48 hours, including negotiations with Gatwick Airport over security deposits, the airline remains steadfast in its commitment to providing exceptional service.

 

Onyema raised pertinent questions regarding the disparity in security deposit requirements between Nigerian airlines and foreign carriers operating in Nigeria. He questioned whether British Airways and Virgin Atlantic pay similar amounts to Nigerian airports and highlighted the need for fair treatment and transparency in international aviation regulations.

 

The journey to launching the Lagos-London route was not without obstacles. Onyema revealed that it took seven years of perseverance and strategic planning to overcome internal and external challenges. Despite facing setbacks, Air Peace remained determined to provide Nigerians with a world-class travel experience.

 

The overwhelming support from both Nigerian and UK citizens has been instrumental in Air Peace’s success. The airline extends its gratitude to the Nigerian population for their unwavering support and promises to continue making the nation proud.

 

Air Peace made history with its inaugural flight on March 31, as the Boeing 777 aircraft touched down at Gatwick Airport in London. The company has responded to the high demand by increasing seat capacity on the route, further demonstrating its commitment to meeting the needs of travelers.

 

As Nigeria’s aviation industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to recognize the contributions of visionary leaders like Allen Onyema. His dedication to advancing the sector reflects a broader commitment to driving economic growth and prosperity in Nigeria.

 

While challenges persist, including disparities in international aviation regulations, there is hope for a brighter future. With continued support from stakeholders and concerted efforts to address systemic issues, Nigerian aviation can reach new heights of success.

 

In conclusion, the launch of Air Peace’s Lagos-London flights represents a significant achievement for Nigerian aviation and underscores the potential for further growth and development in the sector. As Nigerians, we stand united in celebrating this milestone and look forward to a future of expanded opportunities and connectivity in the skies.

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SENEGAL WITNESSES HISTORIC INAUGURATION: FROM PRISONER TO PRESIDENT IN WEEKS

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In a remarkable turn of events, Senegal has witnessed the inauguration of Bassirou Diomaye Faye as its president, marking the culmination of a swift and dramatic rise for the once well-known opposition. Faye, a left-wing pan-Africanist, assumed office after securing a landslide victory in the March 24 elections, with his reform platform. At just 44 years old, he now holds the record of being the youngest president in Senegal’s history.

Taking the oath of office amidst anticipation and hope, Faye pledged to fulfill his duties as president with unwavering dedication. « Before God and the Senegalese nation, I swear to faithfully fulfill the office of president of the Republic of Senegal, » he declared in Diamniadio, near the capital, Dakar. His commitment extended to upholding the constitution, defending national integrity, and championing African unity.

The transition of power, formalized with outgoing President Macky Sall, signifies a significant moment in Senegal’s political landscape. Faye’s journey to presidency was not without hurdles, notably his recent release from prison less than two weeks before the election, alongside his mentor, Ousmane Sonko, following a political amnesty announced by Sall.

For many Senegalese, Faye’s ascension represents a triumph of democracy and the rule of law, For most Senegalese youth this victory a culmination of a long struggle for democracy and the rule of law… This is a day of celebration for everyone.

The election itself served as a litmus test for Senegal’s democratic stability within West Africa. Months of unrest preceding the polls, fueled by concerns over constitutional term limits and allegations of corruption, underscored the nation’s commitment to democratic principles. Faye’s victory resonated particularly with the youth, who expressed frustration over issues such as unemployment and perceived exploitation by former colonial powers.

In his inaugural address, Faye, affectionately known as Diomaye, reiterated his pledge to combat corruption and implement economic reforms. A practicing Muslim hailing from a modest background, Faye emphasized transparency by publicly disclosing his assets before the election, setting a precedent for accountability in leadership.

The appointment of Ousmane Sonko as prime minister further solidifies Faye’s commitment to inclusive governance and coalition-building. The swift formation of a new government signals a fresh chapter in Senegal’s political landscape, one marked by optimism and aspirations for positive change.

As Africa’s youngest elected president, Faye embodies the hopes and aspirations of a new generation. His rapid ascent from political prisoner to head of state underscores the resilience of Senegal’s democracy and the power of collective determination in shaping the nation’s future.

 

In a gesture of regional solidarity and support, the president of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who serves as the chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), felicitated with the new president. This demonstration of camaraderie highlights the interconnectedness of West African nations and the shared commitment to fostering peace, stability, and prosperity across the region. As Senegal embarks on a new chapter under Faye’s leadership, the congratulatory messages from neighboring states serve as a testament to the significance of this historic moment for the entire continent.

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