Senate Launches Probe into Flight Delays, Summons Keyamo and Other Aviation Officials
The Senate has tasked its Committee on Aviation with summoning the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, along with the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, airline operators, and other relevant stakeholders.
The committee is to investigate the frequent flight delays and cancellations that have become a major concern in the country. This resolution came after a motion presented by Senator Buhari Abdulfatai from Oyo State, who highlighted the negative impact these disruptions have on Nigeria’s socio-economic growth and the public’s confidence in the aviation sector.
The Senate’s investigation aims to identify the underlying causes of the disruptions and find long-term solutions to improve the reliability and efficiency of air travel within the country. This inquiry reflects the Senate’s commitment to addressing concerns affecting air transport, ensuring that such issues do not continue to undermine the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s economic development.
In addition to the aviation issue, the Senate leadership has instructed the Committee on Finance to suspend further action on the proposed tax reform bill until after a high-level meeting with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF). The decision was announced by Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, during plenary. The suspension follows ongoing debates over contentious issues within the tax bill, which has sparked disagreements among lawmakers and stakeholders.
To resolve these differences, the Senate has formed a special committee to address the contentious areas of the bill. This committee will meet on Thursday, December 5, and is expected to provide a platform for lawmakers to align their positions. Additionally, a special meeting chaired by the Minority Leader will be convened to discuss and harmonize the bill’s provisions, ensuring it addresses both national priorities and stakeholder concerns.
