Man Dies On Board Arik Air Lagos –Owerri Flight
Zainab Junaid Elesho
A middle-aged man, Mr Albert Nnadi, 57 onboard Arik Air’s Owerri-Lagos
flight yesterday
A source told our correspondent that the passenger was discovered dead
when other passengers were disembarking from the airplane on arriving
at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos.
Causes of his death are yet known.
Reacting to this, the Public Relations and Communications Manager, Mr
Adebanji Ola, who confirmed the development, explained in a statement
that the passenger boarded the flight from Owerri in the company of a
relative.
The spokesman said that the passenger was confirmed dead by doctors in
the afternoon on arrival at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos.
He added that the deceased started showing signs of uneasiness midway
into the flight before the incident happened.
Banji stated that the body of the man had been deposited in the
mortuary by the Police while investigation into the immediate cause of
death is ongoing.
Thursday 3 December 2015
Insecurity at airport: Man attempts stow away
Insecurity at airport: Man attempts stow away
Zainab Junaid Elesho
A middle aged man has breached the security of the Murtala Muhammed
Airports (MMA), Lagos threatening to keep hostage Medview Airlines
aircraft and passengers bound for Abuja.
The Boeing 737 aircraft belonging to Medview Airline had close to 100
passengers on board.
A top official of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN),
who works at the airfield of the airport, told journalists that the
incident happened at about 1.51pm when the angry man successfully
gained access to the security area of the airport using the several
leaky route in Shasha area of the airport
The source confirmed that ‘the captain of the aircraft on landing; saw
a man who was walking across the airplane, leading to the crew
blasting him which he said led to severe burns to the man,’ The man is
a director of a company at Shasha who developed madness. He was
carrying a bag. He was taken away immediately the incident happened.”
the source said
The General Manager, Corporate Communications, Mr Yakubu Dati also
confirmed the incident to journalists stating that Vigilant Aviation
Security (AVSEC) staff of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria
(FAAN) on December 2, 2015, apprehended a man, Mr. Alabibu Olushola,
who according to him was attempting to stow away in a taxing aircraft
on the tarmac of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA),
Lagos.
His words, “The culprit was arrested as soon as he scaled the
perimeter fence near the moving aircraft and after interrogation by
the AVSEC staff; he was immediately handed over to the police for
further interrogation.”
“The authority wishes to remind members of the public that access to
restricted areas of the airport, including the tarmac and perimeter
roads, is prohibited for unauthorized people, including airport staff,
who have no business being there. This is more so in view of the
present security situation in the country.”
Dati reiterated that the authority would henceforth not hesitate to
arrest and prosecute any person, including unauthorised airport staff,
who is found loitering around restricted areas of airports.
The Media Consultant to Medview, Mr Obuke Oyibotha, also affirmed in a
statement that the management of Medview Airline commended the crew of
one of its flight for assisting security agencies to arrest a man at
the runway of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos
He explained that the action of the crew, which led to the arrest and
the return of the aircraft to the tarmac for security check was in
line with ICAO recommended best practices on aviation security.
“The Maiduguri bound aircraft via Abuja was taxing to the threshold
for take-off when the pilot sited a man on the active runway and
alerted the control tower on his observation and requested for
aviation security personnel.”
“While still taxiing, the pilot noticed that the same man has crossed
to the threshold, and was moving towards the aircraft, and had to
alert the control tower again for security. The man got entangled with
the engine thrust pilot increased the speed of the engine before he
was picked up by security agents.”
“The pilot asked for permission to return to base, where security
agencies including Bomb Disposal Squad conducted a thorough check on
all passengers, luggage and the entire aircraft and appropriate
clearance was given,” he said.
Zainab Junaid Elesho
A middle aged man has breached the security of the Murtala Muhammed
Airports (MMA), Lagos threatening to keep hostage Medview Airlines
aircraft and passengers bound for Abuja.
The Boeing 737 aircraft belonging to Medview Airline had close to 100
passengers on board.
A top official of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN),
who works at the airfield of the airport, told journalists that the
incident happened at about 1.51pm when the angry man successfully
gained access to the security area of the airport using the several
leaky route in Shasha area of the airport
The source confirmed that ‘the captain of the aircraft on landing; saw
a man who was walking across the airplane, leading to the crew
blasting him which he said led to severe burns to the man,’ The man is
a director of a company at Shasha who developed madness. He was
carrying a bag. He was taken away immediately the incident happened.”
the source said
The General Manager, Corporate Communications, Mr Yakubu Dati also
confirmed the incident to journalists stating that Vigilant Aviation
Security (AVSEC) staff of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria
(FAAN) on December 2, 2015, apprehended a man, Mr. Alabibu Olushola,
who according to him was attempting to stow away in a taxing aircraft
on the tarmac of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA),
Lagos.
His words, “The culprit was arrested as soon as he scaled the
perimeter fence near the moving aircraft and after interrogation by
the AVSEC staff; he was immediately handed over to the police for
further interrogation.”
“The authority wishes to remind members of the public that access to
restricted areas of the airport, including the tarmac and perimeter
roads, is prohibited for unauthorized people, including airport staff,
who have no business being there. This is more so in view of the
present security situation in the country.”
Dati reiterated that the authority would henceforth not hesitate to
arrest and prosecute any person, including unauthorised airport staff,
who is found loitering around restricted areas of airports.
The Media Consultant to Medview, Mr Obuke Oyibotha, also affirmed in a
statement that the management of Medview Airline commended the crew of
one of its flight for assisting security agencies to arrest a man at
the runway of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos
He explained that the action of the crew, which led to the arrest and
the return of the aircraft to the tarmac for security check was in
line with ICAO recommended best practices on aviation security.
“The Maiduguri bound aircraft via Abuja was taxing to the threshold
for take-off when the pilot sited a man on the active runway and
alerted the control tower on his observation and requested for
aviation security personnel.”
“While still taxiing, the pilot noticed that the same man has crossed
to the threshold, and was moving towards the aircraft, and had to
alert the control tower again for security. The man got entangled with
the engine thrust pilot increased the speed of the engine before he
was picked up by security agents.”
“The pilot asked for permission to return to base, where security
agencies including Bomb Disposal Squad conducted a thorough check on
all passengers, luggage and the entire aircraft and appropriate
clearance was given,” he said.
Sunday 8 November 2015
Nigeria Aviation at 90: experts condemn status; profer likely solution
Nigeria Aviation at 90: experts condemn status; profer likely solution
ZAINAB JUNAID ELESHO
From the very first flight that landed in Kano in November 1925, Nigeria’s aviation industry has continued to witness archaic developments that have been multi-dimensional in nature.
This was the view of stakeholders that spoke at the two day conference powered by New Age Communications to celebrate 90 years anniversary of Nigeria Aviation.
Former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, Roland Iyayi, affirmed that airlines operating in the country are in a destructive competition.
Mr. Iyayi said the airlines had not been able to maximise the huge potential of the aviation sector in generating employment and contributing to the country’s Gross Domestic Product.
He said Nigeria currently boasts of 15 million travelling passengers out of a population of 170 million which accounts for only 10 per cent.
Mr Iyayi, who is currently the Managing Director of Topbrass Aviaton, said out of the 26 airports in the country, 80.2 per cent of the total traffic passes through the Abuja, Lagos and Port Harcourt Airports.
“I scarcely see any major airline in the country today that will survive the next three years except that there is a major injection of capital. The promoters of airlines don’t take time to study the market. So, they need to think outside the box and find new ways to make the industry grow,’’ he said.
Mr. Iyayi later advised the government to enact policies that would support the growth of the sector, including the establishment of a strong national carrier like the defunct Nigerian Airways, "we dont need coersive regulations, human capacity should be developed, corporate policy should be looked into and on national carrier, the structure of its ownership should be looked into. Government has no reason to engage financially in it but should provide basis on how it should be run," he advised.
The Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Muhtar Usman, who was represented by Director of Administration, Aba Ejembi, said the authority was strengthening its regional offices to effectively perform its oversight functions.“I think in 90 years, Nigeria aviation has contributed immensely to the GDP but we can do better, so Nigerians should be dissuaded from seeing air travelling as an elitist thing,’’ Mr. Usman said.
Also speaking, Nogie Meggison, Chairman Airline Operators of Nigeria, who tasked the government on infrastructure and enabling environment for the aviation sector to grow, said the aviation sector was only contributing four per cent to the country’s GDP, while that of Ethiopia was contributing 26 per cent.
Travel expert and organiser of Akwaba African Travel Market, Ikechi Uko earlier this year said that Nigeria has benefited from air travel during this period in terms of increase in mobility, noting that air travel provided the platform for Nigerians to interact with the world and also do business with the rest of the world.He said: “In terms of participation we have not done very well. We are supposed to run the best airlines in Africa and one of the best in the world, considering the fact we have robust and the largest economy in Africa. Also in terms of airport infrastructure, we have not achieved much. Nigeria does not have up to five standard airports. So I don’t think we have done well in that area, but we have benefited from the industry.”
Organiser of the two day conference, Mr. Ariyo Akinfenwa, the Principal Strategist/chief executive officer of Media Age Communications Nigeria
also noted that from when the very first flight landed in Kano in November 1925, Nigeria’s aviation industry has continued to witness developments that have been multi-dimensional in nature.According to him, after decades of highs and lows in this critical sector described as the gateway to Nigeria’s economy, it has become expedient for stakeholders to evaluate the industry’s past, present and the future in order to chart a better course.
He said despite the challenges facing the country’s aviation industry, there is still need to celebrate the years of existence because aviation has brought so much of growth and development to Nigeria, he said
ZAINAB JUNAID ELESHO
From the very first flight that landed in Kano in November 1925, Nigeria’s aviation industry has continued to witness archaic developments that have been multi-dimensional in nature.
This was the view of stakeholders that spoke at the two day conference powered by New Age Communications to celebrate 90 years anniversary of Nigeria Aviation.
Former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, Roland Iyayi, affirmed that airlines operating in the country are in a destructive competition.
Mr. Iyayi said the airlines had not been able to maximise the huge potential of the aviation sector in generating employment and contributing to the country’s Gross Domestic Product.
He said Nigeria currently boasts of 15 million travelling passengers out of a population of 170 million which accounts for only 10 per cent.
Mr Iyayi, who is currently the Managing Director of Topbrass Aviaton, said out of the 26 airports in the country, 80.2 per cent of the total traffic passes through the Abuja, Lagos and Port Harcourt Airports.
“I scarcely see any major airline in the country today that will survive the next three years except that there is a major injection of capital. The promoters of airlines don’t take time to study the market. So, they need to think outside the box and find new ways to make the industry grow,’’ he said.
Mr. Iyayi later advised the government to enact policies that would support the growth of the sector, including the establishment of a strong national carrier like the defunct Nigerian Airways, "we dont need coersive regulations, human capacity should be developed, corporate policy should be looked into and on national carrier, the structure of its ownership should be looked into. Government has no reason to engage financially in it but should provide basis on how it should be run," he advised.
The Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Muhtar Usman, who was represented by Director of Administration, Aba Ejembi, said the authority was strengthening its regional offices to effectively perform its oversight functions.“I think in 90 years, Nigeria aviation has contributed immensely to the GDP but we can do better, so Nigerians should be dissuaded from seeing air travelling as an elitist thing,’’ Mr. Usman said.
Also speaking, Nogie Meggison, Chairman Airline Operators of Nigeria, who tasked the government on infrastructure and enabling environment for the aviation sector to grow, said the aviation sector was only contributing four per cent to the country’s GDP, while that of Ethiopia was contributing 26 per cent.
Travel expert and organiser of Akwaba African Travel Market, Ikechi Uko earlier this year said that Nigeria has benefited from air travel during this period in terms of increase in mobility, noting that air travel provided the platform for Nigerians to interact with the world and also do business with the rest of the world.He said: “In terms of participation we have not done very well. We are supposed to run the best airlines in Africa and one of the best in the world, considering the fact we have robust and the largest economy in Africa. Also in terms of airport infrastructure, we have not achieved much. Nigeria does not have up to five standard airports. So I don’t think we have done well in that area, but we have benefited from the industry.”
Organiser of the two day conference, Mr. Ariyo Akinfenwa, the Principal Strategist/chief executive officer of Media Age Communications Nigeria
also noted that from when the very first flight landed in Kano in November 1925, Nigeria’s aviation industry has continued to witness developments that have been multi-dimensional in nature.According to him, after decades of highs and lows in this critical sector described as the gateway to Nigeria’s economy, it has become expedient for stakeholders to evaluate the industry’s past, present and the future in order to chart a better course.
He said despite the challenges facing the country’s aviation industry, there is still need to celebrate the years of existence because aviation has brought so much of growth and development to Nigeria, he said
Tuesday 3 November 2015
Med-view commences flight on London - Lagos route Nov. 20
Medview Airline to commence Lagos-London route November 20
ZAINAB JUNAID ELESHO
Medview Airline will on November 20 commenced flight on the Lagos-London route. The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Airline, Alhaji Muneer Bankole disclosed this yesterday adding that the United Kingdom and Nigerian civil aviation authorities and their foreign affairs ministries had given the airline necessary approvals required to operate direct flight between the two countries.
Unlike the other London flights which birth at the Heathrow Airport, the airline would be landing at Gatwick Airport.
The MD said the airline deliberately chose Gatwick Airport to cater for people from up North and South in the United Kingdom, adding that the airline had secured slots at Gatwick Southern Terminal to provide train services to passengers travelling to other parts of UK.
He said limousine service has also been provided for business class people.He also noted that London - Lagos route has remained one of the busiest routes in the world and yet the most expensive.
The CEO explained that Med-view entered the route as a Nigerian flag carrier to supply the missing link which includes capacity, reasonable fares, good customer care and excellent in-flight entertainment."I am happy to inform you that our Inaugural Flight from Lagos - London Gatwick is Friday, November 20, 2015. We are starting with four weekly flights on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays", he said.
The inaugural flight would coincide with Med-view Airline third anniversary of its commencement of domestic operation on November 8, 2012.
ZAINAB JUNAID ELESHO
Medview Airline will on November 20 commenced flight on the Lagos-London route. The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Airline, Alhaji Muneer Bankole disclosed this yesterday adding that the United Kingdom and Nigerian civil aviation authorities and their foreign affairs ministries had given the airline necessary approvals required to operate direct flight between the two countries.
Unlike the other London flights which birth at the Heathrow Airport, the airline would be landing at Gatwick Airport.
The MD said the airline deliberately chose Gatwick Airport to cater for people from up North and South in the United Kingdom, adding that the airline had secured slots at Gatwick Southern Terminal to provide train services to passengers travelling to other parts of UK.
He said limousine service has also been provided for business class people.He also noted that London - Lagos route has remained one of the busiest routes in the world and yet the most expensive.
The CEO explained that Med-view entered the route as a Nigerian flag carrier to supply the missing link which includes capacity, reasonable fares, good customer care and excellent in-flight entertainment."I am happy to inform you that our Inaugural Flight from Lagos - London Gatwick is Friday, November 20, 2015. We are starting with four weekly flights on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays", he said.
The inaugural flight would coincide with Med-view Airline third anniversary of its commencement of domestic operation on November 8, 2012.
Welcome to ZAINAB JUNAID's Blog : Arik Air reiterates need for insurance policy … Ce...
Welcome to ZAINAB JUNAID's Blog : Arik Air reiterates need for insurance policy … Ce...: Arik Air reiterates need for insurance policy … Celebrates 9th anniversary in low key ZAINAB JUNAID ELESHO Arik Air, yesterday, reiterate...
18 NAMA ENGINEERS OBTAIN ATSEP LICENSE
18 NAMA ENGINEERS OBTAIN ATSEP LICENSE
ZAINAB JUNAID ELESHO
A total of 18 air traffic engineers in the Nigerian Airspace anagement Agency (NAMA) are to be issued with the Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEP) License by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). This is just as the air traffic engineers drawn from various airports across the country successfully passed their practical and written examinations conducted recently by the regulatory authority. Prior to this examination, they had also successfully undergone a three-month ATSEP License Preparatory Course between July and October, 2015, at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria. The ATSEP course which came in Seven Modules treated topics in Meteorology, Avionics, Aircraft Systems, Air Traffic Control Operations, Aeronautical Communications, Navaids, Surveillance and Electromechanical systems. In a statement, the Managing Director of NAMA Engr. Ibrahim Abdulsalam, congratulated the engineers for “displaying extreme commitment to the goal of improved air safety in Nigeria by taking their studies seriously’’. Engr. Abdulsalam noted “with major milestones so far recorded by the agency in digitalizing Air Traffic Management as evident in the deployment of ADS-C/ CPDLC and Safe Towers in the nation’s airspace, management has no option than to adequately enhance technical and operational capacity to man these new technologies in line with world best practices.’’
ZAINAB JUNAID ELESHO
A total of 18 air traffic engineers in the Nigerian Airspace anagement Agency (NAMA) are to be issued with the Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEP) License by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). This is just as the air traffic engineers drawn from various airports across the country successfully passed their practical and written examinations conducted recently by the regulatory authority. Prior to this examination, they had also successfully undergone a three-month ATSEP License Preparatory Course between July and October, 2015, at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria. The ATSEP course which came in Seven Modules treated topics in Meteorology, Avionics, Aircraft Systems, Air Traffic Control Operations, Aeronautical Communications, Navaids, Surveillance and Electromechanical systems. In a statement, the Managing Director of NAMA Engr. Ibrahim Abdulsalam, congratulated the engineers for “displaying extreme commitment to the goal of improved air safety in Nigeria by taking their studies seriously’’. Engr. Abdulsalam noted “with major milestones so far recorded by the agency in digitalizing Air Traffic Management as evident in the deployment of ADS-C/ CPDLC and Safe Towers in the nation’s airspace, management has no option than to adequately enhance technical and operational capacity to man these new technologies in line with world best practices.’’
AVIATION PERM SEC ADVOCATES STRATEGIC SYNERGY BETWEEN NAMA AND NAF
AVIATION PERM SEC ADVOCATES STRATEGIC SYNERGY BETWEEN NAMA AND NAF
ZAINAB JUNAID ELESHO
THE Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation, Hajia Binta Bello has called for an enhanced and strategic collaboration between Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the Nigerian Air Force in the management of the nation’s airspace. Hajia Bello who was represented at this year’s Airspace Management Seminar which held at the Command and Staff College, Jaji, Kaduna State, by the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Ibrahim Abdulsalam, noted that this kind of collaboration between the civil and military is needed especially now to ensure success in the fight against insurgency, stressing that the deployment of Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) along with other Air Traffic Management technologies by NAMA has greatly enhanced the safety and security of the Nigerian airspace. Also in a statement, the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Ibrahim Abdulsalam stated that the deployment of Automatic Dependent Surveillance –Contract/ Controller Pilot Data Link Communication (ADS-C/ CPDLC) by NAMA would boost military reconnaissance activities as well as the discreet operations like Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) because the data link communication provides for a unique channel of communication for the exchange of messages between each aircraft and Air Traffic Control without other aircraft being privy to the conversation. Engr. Abdulsalam therefore pledged the agency’s readiness “to support and partner with the military in the area of personnel training within the limits of available resources,’’ just as he promised to fast-track the ratification of Standard Operating Procedures for the operation of UAVs in the Nigerian airspace by the civil and military authorities. This year’s Airspace Management Seminar with the theme “Exploiting Airspace Dominance/Ubiquity in Counterterrorism/Counter-insurgency – Roles of UAVs and Radar Coverage” was attended by representatives from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Army as well as the Nigerian Navy.
ZAINAB JUNAID ELESHO
THE Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation, Hajia Binta Bello has called for an enhanced and strategic collaboration between Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the Nigerian Air Force in the management of the nation’s airspace. Hajia Bello who was represented at this year’s Airspace Management Seminar which held at the Command and Staff College, Jaji, Kaduna State, by the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Ibrahim Abdulsalam, noted that this kind of collaboration between the civil and military is needed especially now to ensure success in the fight against insurgency, stressing that the deployment of Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) along with other Air Traffic Management technologies by NAMA has greatly enhanced the safety and security of the Nigerian airspace. Also in a statement, the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Ibrahim Abdulsalam stated that the deployment of Automatic Dependent Surveillance –Contract/ Controller Pilot Data Link Communication (ADS-C/ CPDLC) by NAMA would boost military reconnaissance activities as well as the discreet operations like Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) because the data link communication provides for a unique channel of communication for the exchange of messages between each aircraft and Air Traffic Control without other aircraft being privy to the conversation. Engr. Abdulsalam therefore pledged the agency’s readiness “to support and partner with the military in the area of personnel training within the limits of available resources,’’ just as he promised to fast-track the ratification of Standard Operating Procedures for the operation of UAVs in the Nigerian airspace by the civil and military authorities. This year’s Airspace Management Seminar with the theme “Exploiting Airspace Dominance/Ubiquity in Counterterrorism/Counter-insurgency – Roles of UAVs and Radar Coverage” was attended by representatives from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Army as well as the Nigerian Navy.
Arik Air reiterates need for insurance policy … Celebrates 9th anniversary in low key
Arik Air reiterates need for insurance policy
… Celebrates 9th anniversary in low key
ZAINAB JUNAID ELESHO
Arik Air, yesterday, reiterated the need for passengers to acquire the insurance policy that safeguards them against flight delays, cancellation, medical issues among other benefits.
Speaking at the airline’s 9th anniversary celebration held in its Lagos Headquarter, Mr. Chris Ndulue, Managing Director, affirmed that the insurance policy which was provided by Old Mutual Insurance Company in partnership with Risk Analysts Insurance Brokers, provides cover against accident resulting in damage to baggage, missing bags, flight cancellation and delays, medical expenses, permanent disablement or bodily injury, within 90 days of the occurrence of the accident.
Ndulue said, “The cover is valid for such incidents occurring while aboard Arik aircraft.
“Some of the benefits of the policy the passengers will enjoy include getting N1 million in the event of personal accident. A passenger whose flight is cancelled or delayed for more than eight hours gets N20, 000 per trip.
“Emergency medical expenses attracts up to N50, 000, while mishandled and missing baggage will attract N20, 000 per passenger. Damage to baggage will attract N20, 000 per passenger. All you need to do is buy Arik Air ticket online to any destination within Nigeria and buy an Air Travel Insurance for just N1, 000,” Ndulue added.
On the airline’s achievement so far, the Managing Director said though the airline started its commercial flights with only four aircraft (CRJ900, B737-300) on October 30, 2006, total fleet stands at 28 aircraft.
According to him, “We started with only Lagos- Abuja flight, now flies to 19 domestic and 12 regional/ international destinations. From 29, 363 passengers flown in 2006, as at September 30, 2015, we have now flown 17, 0304,741 passengers. Our staff strength has increased to 3, 000. We will be extending our Abidjan operations to Dakar from mid November. In the first quarter of 2016 we are hoping to commence operation to Libreville, Gabon, to increase our fleet with two Q400s, two units of CRJ 1000s and two units A330-200s; and to also start daily operation on our Lagos JFK-Lagos route, among others.
… Celebrates 9th anniversary in low key
ZAINAB JUNAID ELESHO
Arik Air, yesterday, reiterated the need for passengers to acquire the insurance policy that safeguards them against flight delays, cancellation, medical issues among other benefits.
Speaking at the airline’s 9th anniversary celebration held in its Lagos Headquarter, Mr. Chris Ndulue, Managing Director, affirmed that the insurance policy which was provided by Old Mutual Insurance Company in partnership with Risk Analysts Insurance Brokers, provides cover against accident resulting in damage to baggage, missing bags, flight cancellation and delays, medical expenses, permanent disablement or bodily injury, within 90 days of the occurrence of the accident.
Ndulue said, “The cover is valid for such incidents occurring while aboard Arik aircraft.
“Some of the benefits of the policy the passengers will enjoy include getting N1 million in the event of personal accident. A passenger whose flight is cancelled or delayed for more than eight hours gets N20, 000 per trip.
“Emergency medical expenses attracts up to N50, 000, while mishandled and missing baggage will attract N20, 000 per passenger. Damage to baggage will attract N20, 000 per passenger. All you need to do is buy Arik Air ticket online to any destination within Nigeria and buy an Air Travel Insurance for just N1, 000,” Ndulue added.
On the airline’s achievement so far, the Managing Director said though the airline started its commercial flights with only four aircraft (CRJ900, B737-300) on October 30, 2006, total fleet stands at 28 aircraft.
According to him, “We started with only Lagos- Abuja flight, now flies to 19 domestic and 12 regional/ international destinations. From 29, 363 passengers flown in 2006, as at September 30, 2015, we have now flown 17, 0304,741 passengers. Our staff strength has increased to 3, 000. We will be extending our Abidjan operations to Dakar from mid November. In the first quarter of 2016 we are hoping to commence operation to Libreville, Gabon, to increase our fleet with two Q400s, two units of CRJ 1000s and two units A330-200s; and to also start daily operation on our Lagos JFK-Lagos route, among others.
Monday 2 November 2015
Dana Air Re-launches Cloud 9 In-flight magazine
Dana Air Re-launches Cloud 9 In-flight magazine
Zainab Junaid Elesho
Passengers of Dana Air are in for an exciting flying experience as the airlines’ recently re-introduce its in-flight magazine Cloud 9.
Cloud 9' according to a release signed by Kingsley Ezenwa the airlines spokesman, is a quarterly, full-color in-flight magazine with a good blend of tourism, food, health, style, music, art, celebrity interviews, and opinion page. It is also a peek inside the exciting, picturesque destinations of Dana Air’s route network
Accountable Manager of Dana Air, Mr Obi Mbanuzuo also said that, “the re-introduction of Cloud 9 is part of our determination to meet, and even exceed the flying aspirations of our guests, by contributing towards an interesting and engaging in-flight experience.’’
He said the launch was borne out of Dana Air’s philosophy of giving more to its esteemed guests and going the extra mile to advance guests’ satisfaction has always been the driving force.
‘’We have made every effort to tailor the editorial content targeting our multicultural, multi-ethnic passengers, from the brilliant articles to the enthralling images, all have been well thought out and carefully put together to intensify the flying experience of our passengers.”
In less than seven (7) years of commencing operations, Dana Air has become one of Nigeria’s leading airlines, operating over 20 daily flights to Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt and Uyo.
The airline is reputed for its efficient customer service, world-class in-flight services, on-time departure and arrival, innovative e-airline products and high safety and quality standard.
Zainab Junaid Elesho
Passengers of Dana Air are in for an exciting flying experience as the airlines’ recently re-introduce its in-flight magazine Cloud 9.
Cloud 9' according to a release signed by Kingsley Ezenwa the airlines spokesman, is a quarterly, full-color in-flight magazine with a good blend of tourism, food, health, style, music, art, celebrity interviews, and opinion page. It is also a peek inside the exciting, picturesque destinations of Dana Air’s route network
Accountable Manager of Dana Air, Mr Obi Mbanuzuo also said that, “the re-introduction of Cloud 9 is part of our determination to meet, and even exceed the flying aspirations of our guests, by contributing towards an interesting and engaging in-flight experience.’’
He said the launch was borne out of Dana Air’s philosophy of giving more to its esteemed guests and going the extra mile to advance guests’ satisfaction has always been the driving force.
‘’We have made every effort to tailor the editorial content targeting our multicultural, multi-ethnic passengers, from the brilliant articles to the enthralling images, all have been well thought out and carefully put together to intensify the flying experience of our passengers.”
In less than seven (7) years of commencing operations, Dana Air has become one of Nigeria’s leading airlines, operating over 20 daily flights to Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt and Uyo.
The airline is reputed for its efficient customer service, world-class in-flight services, on-time departure and arrival, innovative e-airline products and high safety and quality standard.
Arik Air launches customised air travel insurance
Arik Air launches customized Air Travel Insurance
Zainab Junaid Elesho
Arik Air, West Africa’s largest carrier has launched a customized air travel insurance aimed at taking passengers flying experience to a new level.
Spokesperson for the airline, Banji Ola disclosed this in a release stating that the new air travel insurance will enable passengers to enjoy a customized domestic travel insurance on Arik Air with only N1, 000.00.
"All a passenger needs do is to buy an Arik Air ticket to any destination in Nigeria online at www.arikair.com, then buy an air travel insurance for just N1,000.00 using Verve Card, MasterCard or Visa Card.
"The insurance policy provides cover against personal accident (up to N1, 000,000.00) resulting in death, permanent disability or bodily injury within 90 days of the occurrence of the accident. The cover is from airport to airport whilst aboard Arik Air.
"The benefits also include: flight cancellation or delays of more than eight hours, N20,000.00; emergency medical expenses, up to N50,000.00; mishandled/missing baggage (inconvenience), up to N20,000.00; and damage to baggage, up to N20,000.00 per passenger.
"This insurance is not the same as the normal cover guaranteed for all passengers in case of air crash as provided for by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulation," the statement reads.
"The air travel insurance is provided by Old Mutual Insurance Company in partnership with Risk Analyst Insurance Brokers," it said.
Commenting on the air travel insurance, Arik Air’s Managing Director, Mr. Chris Ndulue said:
“We want to take the passengers’ flying experience to a new level and that informs the decision to introduce the air travel insurance. The interests covered by the policy is quite unique and totally different from the customary cover provided for all passengers in case of an air crash”v
Zainab Junaid Elesho
Arik Air, West Africa’s largest carrier has launched a customized air travel insurance aimed at taking passengers flying experience to a new level.
Spokesperson for the airline, Banji Ola disclosed this in a release stating that the new air travel insurance will enable passengers to enjoy a customized domestic travel insurance on Arik Air with only N1, 000.00.
"All a passenger needs do is to buy an Arik Air ticket to any destination in Nigeria online at www.arikair.com, then buy an air travel insurance for just N1,000.00 using Verve Card, MasterCard or Visa Card.
"The insurance policy provides cover against personal accident (up to N1, 000,000.00) resulting in death, permanent disability or bodily injury within 90 days of the occurrence of the accident. The cover is from airport to airport whilst aboard Arik Air.
"The benefits also include: flight cancellation or delays of more than eight hours, N20,000.00; emergency medical expenses, up to N50,000.00; mishandled/missing baggage (inconvenience), up to N20,000.00; and damage to baggage, up to N20,000.00 per passenger.
"This insurance is not the same as the normal cover guaranteed for all passengers in case of air crash as provided for by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulation," the statement reads.
"The air travel insurance is provided by Old Mutual Insurance Company in partnership with Risk Analyst Insurance Brokers," it said.
Commenting on the air travel insurance, Arik Air’s Managing Director, Mr. Chris Ndulue said:
“We want to take the passengers’ flying experience to a new level and that informs the decision to introduce the air travel insurance. The interests covered by the policy is quite unique and totally different from the customary cover provided for all passengers in case of an air crash”v
Wednesday 28 October 2015
SAHCOL to provide Ground Handling Services as South Africa Airways intoduces Abuja entry point
SAHCOL to provide Ground Handling Services as South Africa Airways intoduces Abuja entry point
Zainab Junaid Elesho
The Skyway Aviation Handling Company Limited (SAHCOL), has been named by South African Airways as a preferred Ground Handler in its Abuja operations.
BASIL AGBOARUMI, General Manager,Corporate Communications,for SAHCOL disclosed this adding that this award kicks off the beginning of another long standing relationship between SAHCOL and South African Airways (SAA), in providing seamless services to the airline.
By this contract, Mr. Agboarumi said the company would again have the privilege of providing fast and expedient ground handling services to the SAA operations in Abuja, in the areas of Passenger, Ramp and Cargo Handling services.
South African Airways (SAA), had on Monday, October 19, announced the introduction of a second entry point to Nigeria in its quest to enable trade and unlock mobility, which will considerably add to business travel options in the West African region.
"Adding a second gateway in Nigeria to SAA’s existing daily service to Lagos materially strengthens SAA’s position in West Africa where it plays a significant role in enabling the movement of goods and people between Southern Africa and West Africa thereby enhancing the growing trade and cultural exchanges between these two regions.
“A second entry point in Nigeria forms part of our Long-Term Turnaround Strategy, which identified growth on the African continent as one of its key objectives. Nigeria is one of the fastest growing air travel markets in Sub-Saharan Africa and will be well served with our additional services to Abuja.
“Introducing Abuja as a second entry point in Nigeria will add more travel options, especially for the business community, and will enhance our footprint on the continent,” says Sylvain Bosc, SAA Chief Commercial Officer.
“Enhancing air travel links with Nigeria speaks to the growth in bilateral relations between South Africa and Nigeria. The two countries historically have had strong economic, diplomatic, social and fraternal ties. These are the two economic powerhouses of Africa, with much more to offer and share,” says Aaron Munetsi, SAA Regional General Manager for Africa.
Abuja flights have been scheduled for seamless connectivity into SAA’s inter-continental route network to destinations such as Perth, Hong Kong and Sao Paulo. These connections will make it easy for regional traders, leisure travellers, travellers visiting friends and relatives, diplomatic communities, and international organisations from the northern and central parts of Nigeria to seamlessly connect through O.R Tambo International airport onwards to the airline’s inter-continental and regional route network," Aaron said.
Zainab Junaid Elesho
The Skyway Aviation Handling Company Limited (SAHCOL), has been named by South African Airways as a preferred Ground Handler in its Abuja operations.
BASIL AGBOARUMI, General Manager,Corporate Communications,for SAHCOL disclosed this adding that this award kicks off the beginning of another long standing relationship between SAHCOL and South African Airways (SAA), in providing seamless services to the airline.
By this contract, Mr. Agboarumi said the company would again have the privilege of providing fast and expedient ground handling services to the SAA operations in Abuja, in the areas of Passenger, Ramp and Cargo Handling services.
South African Airways (SAA), had on Monday, October 19, announced the introduction of a second entry point to Nigeria in its quest to enable trade and unlock mobility, which will considerably add to business travel options in the West African region.
"Adding a second gateway in Nigeria to SAA’s existing daily service to Lagos materially strengthens SAA’s position in West Africa where it plays a significant role in enabling the movement of goods and people between Southern Africa and West Africa thereby enhancing the growing trade and cultural exchanges between these two regions.
“A second entry point in Nigeria forms part of our Long-Term Turnaround Strategy, which identified growth on the African continent as one of its key objectives. Nigeria is one of the fastest growing air travel markets in Sub-Saharan Africa and will be well served with our additional services to Abuja.
“Introducing Abuja as a second entry point in Nigeria will add more travel options, especially for the business community, and will enhance our footprint on the continent,” says Sylvain Bosc, SAA Chief Commercial Officer.
“Enhancing air travel links with Nigeria speaks to the growth in bilateral relations between South Africa and Nigeria. The two countries historically have had strong economic, diplomatic, social and fraternal ties. These are the two economic powerhouses of Africa, with much more to offer and share,” says Aaron Munetsi, SAA Regional General Manager for Africa.
Abuja flights have been scheduled for seamless connectivity into SAA’s inter-continental route network to destinations such as Perth, Hong Kong and Sao Paulo. These connections will make it easy for regional traders, leisure travellers, travellers visiting friends and relatives, diplomatic communities, and international organisations from the northern and central parts of Nigeria to seamlessly connect through O.R Tambo International airport onwards to the airline’s inter-continental and regional route network," Aaron said.
Stakeholders calls for Organisational synergy in the sector
Stakeholders calls for Organisational Synergy in the Aviation Sector
Zainab Junaid Elesho
THE Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation, Hajia Bello Binta has affirmed that there is need for synergy of all organizations and stakeholders in the industry in order to achieve a “win-win situation” for the sector.
Hajia Bello made this remark in Lagos during the 21 st Annual Seminar of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) which held at the NCAA Annex, MMIA Lagos, adding that in recognition of the need for a win-win situation in aviation, the stakeholder needs to carry everybody along in policy decisions by the regulations, so as “to ensure that diverse interests are aggregated and equitably catered for.”
Also speaking at the seminar, Capt. Muhtar Usman, Director General, NIGERIAN Civil Aviation Authority who said the year's seminar coincided with the resuscitation of the Nigeria’s first newspaper IWE IROYIN after 140 years of its demise, stated that this year’s seminar has an historic bent to it. "Your seminar is a celebration of journalism in Nigeria," he said.
Capt. Usman went further by highlighting the state of the industry and also proposing a way forward for aviation in the country in consonance with global aviation.
According to him, to have a win-win situation, the sector really needs to move in line with the Convention on International Civil Aviation (the Chicago Convention) which was originally established in 1944. "It states that signatories should collectively work to harmonise and standardise the use of airspace for safety, efficiency and regularity of air transport."
" At present, a lot of foreign airlines are finding Nigeria an investor’s basket. A total nos of 15 (Fifteen) countries have so far indicated their preparedness to sign Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with our country. While 13 others on the threshold waiting for renegotiation of their existing BASAs. From January to July this year, the total amount of ticket sold on the domestic routes is 2,352,011,595.17 naira. While the international operators sold 8,176,919,415.10 naira, within the same period. The total volume of passengers airlifted from January – July 2015 by the domestic operators is 6,061,740 passengers while their foreign counterpart freighted 2,341,748 in similar period.
"The Regulatory Authority is determined to put in the past the hydra- headed problem of dearth of technical staff. We now have a preponderance of Aviation Safety Inspectors (ASI) and the requisite technical manpower.
"We have interviewed and employed a lot of engineers who are presently undergoing training at the Nigerian c College of Aviation Technology, (NCAT), Zaria. Against this background, it is pertinent to note that the future of aviation is now on passenger experience and aviation technology. Enhancing the customer experience is the most important driver for airline operators to embrace next generation “connected” technology, according to an Aviation CIO Outlook 2015.
"A survey was conducted by Terrapinn Connect with hundreds of airlines and airports from around the world as respondents. Reportedly, 82% of the respondents cite customer experience as one of their top three (3) drivers, followed by operational efficiency (69%) and derivable revenue (55%). In other words, airlines operational efficiency should begin to gravitate towards customer centric services. If we all agree that passengers are the revenue base of all operations, there is therefore an implicit need to review our services at the airports and on board the aircraft. This will in turn provide value for money for passengers.
"To provide good and efficient services however, it can only be done with technological development. Our airlines need to join other global players and begin to strive to purchase newer aircraft and invest heavily in technology.
"We need to connect technology in line with global trends with enterprise mobility and provide Wi-Fi infrastructure at our airports.
"I am also aware that Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos and Murtala Mohammed Airport 2 have Wi-Fi facility but more airports need to be connected for customers’ comfort and seamless communication. Airline staff can deliver personalised and efficient services to passengers. Targeted marketing offerings need to be intensified to capture the much needed additional revenue from travellers. We can go further by providing automation and self service for passengers at our various airports. Technology and systems integration into our operations are bound to be expensive and could afflict our budget.However, when we achieve this, it will cause a triple win of improving experience, efficiency and generating the much needed revenue. On the Regulatory part, NCAA will continue to strengthen the Directorate of Consumer Protection (DCP).We will increase our speed in concluding the automation of our customer complaints portal. This will enable us resolve aggrieved passengers complaints in real time. When complaints are resolved in real time, the teeming passengers will look forward to another travel experience. This is the new aviation thinking and reinforced with technological development," he maintained.
Zainab Junaid Elesho
THE Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation, Hajia Bello Binta has affirmed that there is need for synergy of all organizations and stakeholders in the industry in order to achieve a “win-win situation” for the sector.
Hajia Bello made this remark in Lagos during the 21 st Annual Seminar of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) which held at the NCAA Annex, MMIA Lagos, adding that in recognition of the need for a win-win situation in aviation, the stakeholder needs to carry everybody along in policy decisions by the regulations, so as “to ensure that diverse interests are aggregated and equitably catered for.”
Also speaking at the seminar, Capt. Muhtar Usman, Director General, NIGERIAN Civil Aviation Authority who said the year's seminar coincided with the resuscitation of the Nigeria’s first newspaper IWE IROYIN after 140 years of its demise, stated that this year’s seminar has an historic bent to it. "Your seminar is a celebration of journalism in Nigeria," he said.
Capt. Usman went further by highlighting the state of the industry and also proposing a way forward for aviation in the country in consonance with global aviation.
According to him, to have a win-win situation, the sector really needs to move in line with the Convention on International Civil Aviation (the Chicago Convention) which was originally established in 1944. "It states that signatories should collectively work to harmonise and standardise the use of airspace for safety, efficiency and regularity of air transport."
" At present, a lot of foreign airlines are finding Nigeria an investor’s basket. A total nos of 15 (Fifteen) countries have so far indicated their preparedness to sign Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with our country. While 13 others on the threshold waiting for renegotiation of their existing BASAs. From January to July this year, the total amount of ticket sold on the domestic routes is 2,352,011,595.17 naira. While the international operators sold 8,176,919,415.10 naira, within the same period. The total volume of passengers airlifted from January – July 2015 by the domestic operators is 6,061,740 passengers while their foreign counterpart freighted 2,341,748 in similar period.
"The Regulatory Authority is determined to put in the past the hydra- headed problem of dearth of technical staff. We now have a preponderance of Aviation Safety Inspectors (ASI) and the requisite technical manpower.
"We have interviewed and employed a lot of engineers who are presently undergoing training at the Nigerian c College of Aviation Technology, (NCAT), Zaria. Against this background, it is pertinent to note that the future of aviation is now on passenger experience and aviation technology. Enhancing the customer experience is the most important driver for airline operators to embrace next generation “connected” technology, according to an Aviation CIO Outlook 2015.
"A survey was conducted by Terrapinn Connect with hundreds of airlines and airports from around the world as respondents. Reportedly, 82% of the respondents cite customer experience as one of their top three (3) drivers, followed by operational efficiency (69%) and derivable revenue (55%). In other words, airlines operational efficiency should begin to gravitate towards customer centric services. If we all agree that passengers are the revenue base of all operations, there is therefore an implicit need to review our services at the airports and on board the aircraft. This will in turn provide value for money for passengers.
"To provide good and efficient services however, it can only be done with technological development. Our airlines need to join other global players and begin to strive to purchase newer aircraft and invest heavily in technology.
"We need to connect technology in line with global trends with enterprise mobility and provide Wi-Fi infrastructure at our airports.
"I am also aware that Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos and Murtala Mohammed Airport 2 have Wi-Fi facility but more airports need to be connected for customers’ comfort and seamless communication. Airline staff can deliver personalised and efficient services to passengers. Targeted marketing offerings need to be intensified to capture the much needed additional revenue from travellers. We can go further by providing automation and self service for passengers at our various airports. Technology and systems integration into our operations are bound to be expensive and could afflict our budget.However, when we achieve this, it will cause a triple win of improving experience, efficiency and generating the much needed revenue. On the Regulatory part, NCAA will continue to strengthen the Directorate of Consumer Protection (DCP).We will increase our speed in concluding the automation of our customer complaints portal. This will enable us resolve aggrieved passengers complaints in real time. When complaints are resolved in real time, the teeming passengers will look forward to another travel experience. This is the new aviation thinking and reinforced with technological development," he maintained.
Friday 4 September 2015
Arik Air to go public in May 2016 Read more at: http://www.cityvoiceng.com/arik-air-to-go-public-in-may-2016/
trong indications have emerged that Arik Air would become a public enterprise by May 2016, as it concludes preparations to open doors for partnership from investors. The Chief Executive Officer of the airline, Chief Arumemi Ikhide Johnson, confirmed this statement at a breakfast meeting organised by Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI) in Lagos, Wednesday. Arumemi said the airline has already raised 1 billion dollars and more people are still showing interest in an ongoing private offer. According to him, the airline will go public by May 2016.
Read more at: http://www.cityvoiceng.com/arik-air-to-go-public-in-may-2016/
Read more at: http://www.cityvoiceng.com/arik-air-to-go-public-in-may-2016/
Funding, Ownership as bane of Nigeria ‘s aviation industry Read more at: http://www.cityvoiceng.com/funding-ownership-as-bane-of-nigeria-s-aviation-industry/
Regrettably, it has become a culture in the industry for Nigerian airlines to start businesses with billions and before the travelling public gets to enjoy their services, the airlines ran out of business. Reasons behind this anomaly vary, but this has continued to seriously shake the industry. Some of the airlines either folded up or suspend operations due to air mishaps; financial distress, or corporate policy mismanagement. Three airlines currently operate uninterrupted scheduled flights, while others engage in complementary flight operations. The three that are operating daily are Arik Air, Aero Contractors, and Med-View Airline. Overland Airways does complementary flights. Although many aviation analysts have tried to proffer solutions to the above problem, but the solutions seems not be enough to address the anomaly. The Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRI) again seeks to redress these shortcomings as it held another breakfast meeting with all aviation stakeholders in Lagos on Wednesday. OBSERVATIONS Elder Gbenga Olowo, President ASRI, lamented that the mortality rate of Nigeria carriers, which falls between 10-15 years is worrisome. “The Advancement of Aviation Sector in Nigeria has been retarded for the past 45 years (1970 to date), one wonders where the sector will be by 2050,” he said. “Just one Nigeria Airways, 45 years ago, was stronger, healthier and more efficient than 6-10 private schedule airlines economically lying in state today. Mortality rate of 10-15 years is just too high. Model, ownership, funding & sustainability remain a huge question. “Traffic and Demand for Air Travel has increased by more than 500%, in the face of acute infrastructural deficit. Government / Private ownership, policy summersault remain the bane. MMA, the number one Nigeria gateway, has only D&E fingers since 1978 (37 years) ago. Harka and Emirate Airlines recently collided on the Taxiway, in the face of other instances of near collisions and air misses in the sky. “Our airports have no car park, so to say. Approach to all the airports is like arriving into a local uncivilized market rather than a serene, clean, lush, good to behold environment as we see it globally. Passenger Processing is most cumbersome and detestable world over. Personnel lacked Training, Attitude is quite negative and latent with Corruption from desk to desk,” he said Also speaking, Chief Arumemi Ikhide Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Arik Air, denied the fact that Nigerian airlines are weak to meet up challenges with foreign carriers but argued that the carriers are rather faced with civil servant challenges. Sir Johnson said airlines are currently battling with the ministry, as their foreign counterparts are more favoured. “Majority of those appointed in the aviation ministry satisfy their personal interest against we local carriers and there is no sufficient ‘government will’ for the domestic carriers. We are not given same opportunities in area of interlining like the foreign carriers that operates our local routes and this pose serious danger to the airlines. Foreign carriers are more favoured,” he said. He identified Jet A1 (Aviation fuel) as another bone of contention to the carriers. According to him, “Fuel is easier, cheaper and better to acquire outside the country in areas like Ghana and Dubai than buying in Nigeria, cost effective. Sir Arumemi argued that with the hurdles in the industry the airline has continue to keep head above water, yet some set in the sector condemns the airline claiming it owes huge debts. He said: “Arik Air does not owe, but we’ll be glad to see documents that back the claimed debts.” Bismarck. J Rewane, CEO, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, affirmed that when revenue is 62 percent lower than expected, there is need to be extremely objective in managing the limited resources. He said, “Aviation sector presently contributes less than 1 % of Nigeria GDP (meager 0.4%) when a small economy such as Spain contributes up to 5%. This depicts a grossly underperforming sector. All Air Services Agreement has delivered negative balance of trade between Nigeria and its trade partners throwing National Income into deficit through huge capital flight. The challenge of unstoppable African single open sky policy continues to stare us on the face.” RECOMMENDATIONS Elder Olowo affirmed that Nigeria should adopt best model. “US alone controls upwards of 45% world air traffic and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the only agency of government for Aviation in the department of Transport (DOT),” he said. “Transport ministry should engage in the task of evolving complete primordial system for Nigeria where there is seamless backward and forward transportation integration between Air, Road,Rail, Sea, etc; This will evolve a strong and autonomous Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA); Eliminate duplication of powers and incessant political interference in internationally regulatory functions of the agency. Episode of the last administration where DG was changed daily like underwear remain very fresh; DG position should be globally advertised and best professional given the mandate; Reduction in the cost of governance because funds will be used for other more pressing social needs in the economy. “A more objective driven Civil Aviation Administration with policy on measurable deliverables for every sector on short to medium and long term plan is earnestly the necessary and sufficient condition for a healthy Nigeria Aviation Sector.” Although, Arumemi welcomes the national carrier idea, he said there is need for forensic audit to be carried out by the Federal Government before settling for the flag carrier model.
Read more at: http://www.cityvoiceng.com/funding-ownership-as-bane-of-nigeria-s-aviation-industry/
Read more at: http://www.cityvoiceng.com/funding-ownership-as-bane-of-nigeria-s-aviation-industry/
Arik Air to resume flight services to Benin Airport in September 6, 2015
Arik Air, Nigeria has announced the resumption of flight services to Benin Airport effective Sunday, September 6, 2015 following the re-opening of the airport by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
The airline disclosed this in a release yesterday adding that it will operate one flight each from both Lagos and Abuja into Benin on Sunday and thereafter revert to its normal schedule as from Monday, September 7, 2015.
Benin Airport was temporarily closed by FAAN on June 20, 2015 to facilitate rehabilitation works on the airport’s runway. The closure was initially scheduled to last 20 days but was further extended by FAAN.
Friday 21 August 2015
Bristow Chopper Crash: AIB Releases Passengers’ Manifest
The Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) on Thursday officially released names of the victims on board the Bristow helicopter that crashed last week in Oworonshoki area of Lagos, Nigeria.
Tunji Oketunbi, spokesperson for AIB in a press statement said the manifest of the ill-fated flight according to includes- Ita Ekpeyong; Joshua Emekeme; Dolu Ebiejuara; Onoriode Onojete; Chukwuma Erise; Solomon Udeh; Chidi Ukwunta; Iniala Opaimi; Chris Abua; Chukwudi Onah; Joseph Wyatt (Captain); Peter Kayode Bello (Co-Pilot). Of the 12, those that survive were: Joshua Emekeme; Dolu Ebiejuara; Onoriode Onojete; Solomon Udeh; Iniala Opaimi; Chukwudi Onah.
The Sikosky S76 C+ helicopter crashed into the lagoon in Oworonshoki area of Lagos on Wednesday 12 August, 2015 shortly before landing at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.
The helicopter marked 5N-BGD and operated by Bristow Helicopters departed SEDCO oil platform offshore en-route Lagos airport before it crashed at about 3pm.
Tunji Oketunbi, spokesperson for AIB in a press statement said the manifest of the ill-fated flight according to includes- Ita Ekpeyong; Joshua Emekeme; Dolu Ebiejuara; Onoriode Onojete; Chukwuma Erise; Solomon Udeh; Chidi Ukwunta; Iniala Opaimi; Chris Abua; Chukwudi Onah; Joseph Wyatt (Captain); Peter Kayode Bello (Co-Pilot). Of the 12, those that survive were: Joshua Emekeme; Dolu Ebiejuara; Onoriode Onojete; Solomon Udeh; Iniala Opaimi; Chukwudi Onah.
The Sikosky S76 C+ helicopter crashed into the lagoon in Oworonshoki area of Lagos on Wednesday 12 August, 2015 shortly before landing at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.
The helicopter marked 5N-BGD and operated by Bristow Helicopters departed SEDCO oil platform offshore en-route Lagos airport before it crashed at about 3pm.
Wednesday 10 June 2015
Fracas between FAAN and CUSTOM ...both team agree for improved airport security
Following the fracas between the Aviation Security and Customs officials stationed at the Hajj and Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos on the 2nd of June, 2015, the Chief executives of both organizations, Dikko Inde Abdullahi and Engr Saleh Dunoma expressed regrets over the incidence and agreed to work together to avoid future occurrence.
The facts of the incidence was reviewed and resolved to maintain periodic consultations to facilitate airport security in a joint meeting held in Abuja on the 9th of June, 2015.
In a release signed by both Yakubu Dati, General Manager (Corporate Affairs), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and Wale Adeniyi, Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Customs Service, both organizations agreed that:
• The Comptroller General of Customs will investigate the involvement of Customs Officers in the fracas and will take appropriate punitive action if they are found guilty.
• The Comptroller-General of Customs will review current deployments at MMIA, to ensure that only officers who meet the requirements of civility are retained.
• FAAN will not restrict the movement of Customs Officers deployed at the airport, but will continue to manage access control to ensure airport security in line with global standards.
• Operations in the Airports will be guided by strict adherence to processes and procedures established by the Law.
• Current conflicts in the enabling Acts of the two organizations will be harmonized through a joint legal committee in line with International Best Practice.
It would be recalled that Men of the Department of Customs and Excise stationed at the Hajj and Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos on June 2, 2015, manhandled four aviation security personnel of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, leading to serious injuries to these officials, press release from the Airport Authority confirmed.
The release affirmed that two Customs officials attempted to gain entry onto the air side of the airport without any form of identification, in breach of security regulations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and were prevented from doing so by Aviation Security officials. The Customs men then resorted to beating the aviation security officials in full public glare, leading to brief disruption of operations in the immediate vicinity.
The affected Avsec staffs it said were taken to the Aviation Clinic near the airport for treatment.
Wednesday 25 February 2015
Managing Marital Distress-Islamic Perspective
Marital distress is a phenomenon that pops up at any point in time in marriages. It is of course seen as natural phenomenon because of differences between couples, parents, families among others and if not properly addressed could escalate to a dangerous level.
Alhaji Nuraini Titilayo Odunsi, Amir, Islamic Study Group of Nigeria, ISGON,and Dr. Fauziyah Taiwo Oduguwa, Consultant Psychiatrist, Psychiatric Hospital Yaba, Lagos spoke as guest speakers about tips for couples dealing with marital distress at the 1436 AH/2015 annual seminar of The Criterion held on Sunday 22nd February 2015/ 3rd Jummal Awwal, 1436 AH at the Lagos State House of Assembly Mosque.
The topic “sustaining social and spiritual stability in time of marital stress” became a major concern because majority of our Muslim women erroneously believe that they are at the receiving end in their respective marital relationship, or put differently they believe that they are at the mercy of their male partner as far as Islamic marriage is concern, whereas the authentic sources of the Quran and Hadith of the holy Prophet (SAW) is very clear about the restoration of women’s rights in all the sphere of human endeavor including marriage that is contracted according to Islamic rules.
It is not as if men are not affected by these marital stress, but research has revealed that the social and spiritual effect are common in women more than men and the reason is not far-fetched (Islam provides that men-folk can marry more than one woman), an important provision that exclude women folk, hence the aforementioned after effect is prevalent among the Muslim women, which is not supposed to be the case if we understand our religion simply because Almighty Allah (SWT) always take human weakness into consideration, before He prohibit, the reason must be logical if we can reflect deeply. Secondly He (Allah) must have provided alternative to that which He prohibit.
They pinpointed some causes of marital stress and provided tips on how to deal with them:
The potential changes in circumstances that can possibly arise in a marriage leading to social and spiritual instability especially in women according to him include:
• Failure in the spouse obligation: Q4:34 explain that "Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has made one of them to excel the other and because they spend from their means. Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient and guard in the husband's absence that Allah orders them to guard. as to those women on whose path you see ill-conduct, admonish them, refuse to share the beds, beat them, but if they obey you ,seek not against them means. Surely, Allah is Ever Most High , Most Great"
And the Prophet (SAW) said “The best of you is the best to his family and I am the best among you to my family”. He also said “The most perfect believers are the best in conduct and the best of you are those who are best to their wives”(Ibn Hanbal No.7396)
Infertility & Reproduction: Infertility related stress is known to take its toll on relationships, and now a new study shows it can also affect the success of fertility treatments. Researchers reported that the stress of infertility on marriages is a stronger predictor of divorce, particularly relationship that lack understanding of ISLAM (i.e. FAITH). It was reported that the most marital stress required more assisted reproduction cycle to get pregnant than women who reported less stress in their marriages. The bottom line is that if infertility is causing a lot of stress in a partnership it could very well have an impact on whether the woman get pregnant or not.
Unforgiveness : Of particular interest for understanding negative reciprocity are the findings that greater commitment is associated with more constructive , accommodative responses to a partner's negative behaviour and that the dis-positional tendency to forgive is a predictor of spouse's responses to their partners transgressions. Hence spouse's, having a greater tendency to forgive are less likely to avoid the partners or retaliate in kinds following a transgression by the partner. Indeed , spouse's themselves who do not acknowledge that the capacity to seek and grant forgiveness is one of the most important factors contributing to marital longevity and satisfaction will definitely be overwhelmed with marital stress.
Lack of social and emotional support: Studies have however found that women who perceive a lack of emotional and social support are more likely to suffer marital stress.
In-laws and Friends: In this part of the world where the self is only seen and recognised as an integral part of others, it is very difficult for couples to separate themselves from significant others. Therefore for many couples the first few years of marriage is usually a period of adjusting to each other's friends and families.
Widow and Widower: Sudden death of a partner at his or her prime age, resulting in the other partner becoming a widow or widower at the early stage of marriage.
Divorce resulting from unreasonable behaviour from one of the partner.
Separation due to irreconcilable differences between two partners
Abandonment due to the arrival of the new wife or relocation
Impotency on the part of one of the partners in a marriage or illness
The speakers both affirmed that Marital stress is worst when partners take their stress out on each other. Spouse may be blamed even when it is not his or her fault, because she or he is the one who is there for you to take out their anger.
"There are tons of ways to reduce or control marital stress,"they said. Developing a healthy and mature relationship with partners has helped to manage the stress of marital relationship.
The following tips should help break this cycle:
Taa-lim/Prayer session : Every Muslim homes should engage in acquisition of knowledge from Quran and Hadith. They should also ensure that Allah's dictates become their live ideals and cultivate attitude. Through this, increase in Iman is achieved. Religious practice is also related to positive outcomes for the stability and quality of marriage and well behaved children. This nurtured home grown understanding of deen is fertilized with fear of Allah to generate greater sense of wellbeing, more satisfaction and in most cases less likely to commit act of domestic violence.
Constituting counselling body : This unit must maintain high level of confidentiality and expected to proffer timely and adequate advice
Healthy communication is key : Partners should learn to resolve conflicts without doing damage to the relationship or to each other. They should learn to develop the capacity to be genuine and heart--vulnerable. Listen without judgement.
Spend more time alone together: Many couples get so busy that they lead separate life's and understandably feel disconnected. Schedules regular dates to be together and discuss serious conversation.
Ask partner if anything is upsetting him or her: Talk with partner and ask what is bordering him or her. Do not try to guess.
Learn how you and your partner react to stress: Some react by talking; others by complaining, sleeping or taking it out on loved ones. Once you understand how you and your partner react to stress your relationship should get better. it is important to remember to try not to take it personal when your partner gets angry while under stress.
Ask each other of what you need: it is important to tell your partner what you want and need.. The more specific you can be the more likely your partner will be able to do it.
Forgiveness: Forgiveness is important for a successful marriage. on the other hand, both men and women can improve their health by marrying wisely,working hard on solving marital problems and avoiding cataclysmic conflict.
Have more sex: Couples that have regular sex feel better about their lives, better about their relationships and they are less stressed.
Engagement in a serious business enterprise or educational pursuit
Integrating widow and widower into the society: This will enable them live an happy life , socialize freely, increase their level of IBADAH and encourage them to contribute their quota to the upliftment of the Ummah.
Alhaji Nuraini Titilayo Odunsi, Amir, Islamic Study Group of Nigeria, ISGON,and Dr. Fauziyah Taiwo Oduguwa, Consultant Psychiatrist, Psychiatric Hospital Yaba, Lagos spoke as guest speakers about tips for couples dealing with marital distress at the 1436 AH/2015 annual seminar of The Criterion held on Sunday 22nd February 2015/ 3rd Jummal Awwal, 1436 AH at the Lagos State House of Assembly Mosque.
The topic “sustaining social and spiritual stability in time of marital stress” became a major concern because majority of our Muslim women erroneously believe that they are at the receiving end in their respective marital relationship, or put differently they believe that they are at the mercy of their male partner as far as Islamic marriage is concern, whereas the authentic sources of the Quran and Hadith of the holy Prophet (SAW) is very clear about the restoration of women’s rights in all the sphere of human endeavor including marriage that is contracted according to Islamic rules.
It is not as if men are not affected by these marital stress, but research has revealed that the social and spiritual effect are common in women more than men and the reason is not far-fetched (Islam provides that men-folk can marry more than one woman), an important provision that exclude women folk, hence the aforementioned after effect is prevalent among the Muslim women, which is not supposed to be the case if we understand our religion simply because Almighty Allah (SWT) always take human weakness into consideration, before He prohibit, the reason must be logical if we can reflect deeply. Secondly He (Allah) must have provided alternative to that which He prohibit.
They pinpointed some causes of marital stress and provided tips on how to deal with them:
The potential changes in circumstances that can possibly arise in a marriage leading to social and spiritual instability especially in women according to him include:
• Failure in the spouse obligation: Q4:34 explain that "Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has made one of them to excel the other and because they spend from their means. Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient and guard in the husband's absence that Allah orders them to guard. as to those women on whose path you see ill-conduct, admonish them, refuse to share the beds, beat them, but if they obey you ,seek not against them means. Surely, Allah is Ever Most High , Most Great"
And the Prophet (SAW) said “The best of you is the best to his family and I am the best among you to my family”. He also said “The most perfect believers are the best in conduct and the best of you are those who are best to their wives”(Ibn Hanbal No.7396)
Infertility & Reproduction: Infertility related stress is known to take its toll on relationships, and now a new study shows it can also affect the success of fertility treatments. Researchers reported that the stress of infertility on marriages is a stronger predictor of divorce, particularly relationship that lack understanding of ISLAM (i.e. FAITH). It was reported that the most marital stress required more assisted reproduction cycle to get pregnant than women who reported less stress in their marriages. The bottom line is that if infertility is causing a lot of stress in a partnership it could very well have an impact on whether the woman get pregnant or not.
Unforgiveness : Of particular interest for understanding negative reciprocity are the findings that greater commitment is associated with more constructive , accommodative responses to a partner's negative behaviour and that the dis-positional tendency to forgive is a predictor of spouse's responses to their partners transgressions. Hence spouse's, having a greater tendency to forgive are less likely to avoid the partners or retaliate in kinds following a transgression by the partner. Indeed , spouse's themselves who do not acknowledge that the capacity to seek and grant forgiveness is one of the most important factors contributing to marital longevity and satisfaction will definitely be overwhelmed with marital stress.
Lack of social and emotional support: Studies have however found that women who perceive a lack of emotional and social support are more likely to suffer marital stress.
In-laws and Friends: In this part of the world where the self is only seen and recognised as an integral part of others, it is very difficult for couples to separate themselves from significant others. Therefore for many couples the first few years of marriage is usually a period of adjusting to each other's friends and families.
Widow and Widower: Sudden death of a partner at his or her prime age, resulting in the other partner becoming a widow or widower at the early stage of marriage.
Divorce resulting from unreasonable behaviour from one of the partner.
Separation due to irreconcilable differences between two partners
Abandonment due to the arrival of the new wife or relocation
Impotency on the part of one of the partners in a marriage or illness
The speakers both affirmed that Marital stress is worst when partners take their stress out on each other. Spouse may be blamed even when it is not his or her fault, because she or he is the one who is there for you to take out their anger.
"There are tons of ways to reduce or control marital stress,"they said. Developing a healthy and mature relationship with partners has helped to manage the stress of marital relationship.
The following tips should help break this cycle:
Taa-lim/Prayer session : Every Muslim homes should engage in acquisition of knowledge from Quran and Hadith. They should also ensure that Allah's dictates become their live ideals and cultivate attitude. Through this, increase in Iman is achieved. Religious practice is also related to positive outcomes for the stability and quality of marriage and well behaved children. This nurtured home grown understanding of deen is fertilized with fear of Allah to generate greater sense of wellbeing, more satisfaction and in most cases less likely to commit act of domestic violence.
Constituting counselling body : This unit must maintain high level of confidentiality and expected to proffer timely and adequate advice
Healthy communication is key : Partners should learn to resolve conflicts without doing damage to the relationship or to each other. They should learn to develop the capacity to be genuine and heart--vulnerable. Listen without judgement.
Spend more time alone together: Many couples get so busy that they lead separate life's and understandably feel disconnected. Schedules regular dates to be together and discuss serious conversation.
Ask partner if anything is upsetting him or her: Talk with partner and ask what is bordering him or her. Do not try to guess.
Learn how you and your partner react to stress: Some react by talking; others by complaining, sleeping or taking it out on loved ones. Once you understand how you and your partner react to stress your relationship should get better. it is important to remember to try not to take it personal when your partner gets angry while under stress.
Ask each other of what you need: it is important to tell your partner what you want and need.. The more specific you can be the more likely your partner will be able to do it.
Forgiveness: Forgiveness is important for a successful marriage. on the other hand, both men and women can improve their health by marrying wisely,working hard on solving marital problems and avoiding cataclysmic conflict.
Have more sex: Couples that have regular sex feel better about their lives, better about their relationships and they are less stressed.
Integrating widow and widower into the society: This will enable them live an happy life , socialize freely, increase their level of IBADAH and encourage them to contribute their quota to the upliftment of the Ummah.
Monday 23 February 2015
NAMA bags 40 ATCs ratings
The Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has attained another rating of 40 Air Traffic Controllers by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
A release signed by Olajumoke Adetona, Ag GM, NAMA stated this adding that the ATCs who cut across different cadres got their ratings after successfully passing the oral, practical and written examinations conducted in Lagos, Abuja, Kano, PHC as well as Benin airports and supervised by the regulatory authority.
It added that a total of 43 ATCs took part in the rigorous rating examinations held between November and December 2014 on Aerodrome, Approach Radar, Area Control Surveillance but 40 were successful.
While commending the successful ATCs, Engr Abdulsalam Ibrahim, Managing Director of the Agency was reported to have expressed confidence that the latest ratings would further boost the critical manpower need of NAMA especially in Area Radar Control Service.
He stressed that as part of management strategy to build a roboust safety infrastructure across the Nigeria Airspace, training and retraining of critical manpower has remain the focus of his administration.
A release signed by Olajumoke Adetona, Ag GM, NAMA stated this adding that the ATCs who cut across different cadres got their ratings after successfully passing the oral, practical and written examinations conducted in Lagos, Abuja, Kano, PHC as well as Benin airports and supervised by the regulatory authority.
It added that a total of 43 ATCs took part in the rigorous rating examinations held between November and December 2014 on Aerodrome, Approach Radar, Area Control Surveillance but 40 were successful.
While commending the successful ATCs, Engr Abdulsalam Ibrahim, Managing Director of the Agency was reported to have expressed confidence that the latest ratings would further boost the critical manpower need of NAMA especially in Area Radar Control Service.
He stressed that as part of management strategy to build a roboust safety infrastructure across the Nigeria Airspace, training and retraining of critical manpower has remain the focus of his administration.
Wednesday 18 February 2015
The Criterion holds its 1436 AH/2015 annual seminar
The Criterion, an Organization of Muslim Women in Business and the Profession, Lagos District, has announced plans to hold its 1436 A.H/22nd of February 2015, Annual Seminar with the theme: Stability/Perseverance in the face of Adversity.
Speaking on the One-day event, the District Public Relations Officer, Tijani K. O affirmed that the seminar slated to hold at the Lagos State House of Assembly Mosque, Ikeja, will expose the attendees to inspirational and Soul uplifting lectures from high profile speakers with expertise in various fields on the theme.
The Theme for the day are: Maintaining Emotional and Psychological Balance for status Change(Marriage); Sustaining Social and Spiritual Stability in Time of Marital Stress with Dr Fauziyah Taiwo Oduguwa and Alhaji Nurain Titilayo Odunsi as Geust Speakers.
The seminar will also give room for free Medical Checkups and ample opportunity is available for buying and selling of goods.
On this development, The Criterion President for Lagos District, Dr Yaqub Jameela noted that the theme for the Seminar was specifically chosen due to the increasing rate of divorce in the Society and to her "The Association believes that when the home is stable, it translates to a better Society for all,"
Speaking on the One-day event, the District Public Relations Officer, Tijani K. O affirmed that the seminar slated to hold at the Lagos State House of Assembly Mosque, Ikeja, will expose the attendees to inspirational and Soul uplifting lectures from high profile speakers with expertise in various fields on the theme.
The Theme for the day are: Maintaining Emotional and Psychological Balance for status Change(Marriage); Sustaining Social and Spiritual Stability in Time of Marital Stress with Dr Fauziyah Taiwo Oduguwa and Alhaji Nurain Titilayo Odunsi as Geust Speakers.
The seminar will also give room for free Medical Checkups and ample opportunity is available for buying and selling of goods.
On this development, The Criterion President for Lagos District, Dr Yaqub Jameela noted that the theme for the Seminar was specifically chosen due to the increasing rate of divorce in the Society and to her "The Association believes that when the home is stable, it translates to a better Society for all,"
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